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Shaw Centre and Asign Announce Partnership to Enhance Accessibility Through Sign Language Services

Ottawa, March 15, 2024

The Shaw Centre and Asign, a leading provider of American Sign Language (ASL) and langue des signes québécoises (LSQ) interpreting services, are pleased to announce a new partnership aimed at fostering inclusivity and accessibility during events held at the Shaw Centre.

Asign specializes in the provision of sign language interpreting and translation services across Canada. Their services include video remote interpreting (VRI) by appointment, VRI on-demand and in-person interpreting. ASL and LSQ translations are rendered from text-or video-based content and used for placement on websites, social media posts, training platforms and more.

By offering these services, Asign aims to remove communication barriers, ensuring better participation and engagement from both Deaf and hearing attendees at events.

Established in 1997, Asign, an Ottawa-based, women-owned and led company, is deeply passionate about interpreting and holds a strong connection to the Deaf community. Committed to client confidentiality, their interpreters hold security clearance ranging from reliability to top secret. Asign stands out by offering continuous learning opportunities through professional development and mentorship programs for its interpreters, reinforcing its dedication to excellence in serving the Deaf community and event organizers.

“This partnership between Asign and the Shaw Centre marks a milestone in accessible event hosting. By integrating our specialized sign language and translation services, we ensure that the Deaf community is not just included but celebrated. Our shared commitment paves the way for a more inclusive society, where events serve as bridges, connecting diverse communities through understanding and accessibility.” Said Roxanne Whiting, Director of Business Development, Opportunities & Technology at Asign.

The flexibility of their booking options empowers event organizers to schedule interpreters any day of the week, facilitating clear communication by sharing context in advance. Beyond scheduling, they actively assist event organizers in preparing for effective collaboration with interpreters and the Deaf community. Their interpreters familiarize themselves with your event’s subject matter to ensure high-quality interpretation. The Asign team tailors services to meet each event’s unique needs for a seamless interpreting experience.

By incorporating Asign’s expertise in sign language services, we are not just hosting events but crafting inclusive experiences that resonate with diverse audiences. This collaboration reflects our dedication to fostering connections within diverse communities and positively impacting the landscape of event inclusivity.” Expressed Loretta Briard, General Manager of the Shaw Centre.

About Asign:

Asign offers quality sign language interpreting and translation to ensure the Deaf community has equal access to communication. Since 1997, the company has been committed to providing better access for the Deaf community.

Visit www.asign.ca for more information.

About Shaw Centre:

Shaw Centre, formerly known as the Ottawa Congress Centre, is a state-of-the-art convention center that opened its doors in April 2011. The Centre, named the 2020 “World’s Best Convention Centre” by the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC), hosts conventions, conferences, meetings, and events. Shaw Centre is governed by a board of directors and managed by an expert team, with a commitment to creating extraordinary events. Learn more at shaw-centre.com.

For More Information

Roxanne Whiting
Owner | Director of Business Development, Opportunities & Technology
Asign
(613) 864-7150
roxanne.whiting@asign.ca

Josh Verch
Director, Marketing and Partnerships
Shaw Centre
613-294-1528
jverch@shaw-centre.com