The Northwest Territories have six distinct languages, therefore, translators employed by the Dene National Assembly, a political organization are kept extremely busy. To get their message out, the group has five translators who broadcast into a microphone what is being said by the main speakers for the group. This translation is then broadcast through low frequency radio transmitters to different radio headsets depending on the language being translated.

This is not an easy job and requires translators be trained extensively. According to Elenore Bran, an employee who translates between English and Slavey, "We are trained in all aspects of life such as politics and the environment. It gives you a good foundation. We're not greenhorns. We know what we're talking about and the people really appreciate that."

In addition, many languages do not have a direct translation into English. Therefore, translators must attend workshops to learn the language of specific industries. A translator must also fluently speak English and another traditional language.

Despite the many qualifications and extensive training, Bran loves her job because she feels it is important for all groups in the Northwest Territory to communicate with one another. "When you know that you've made an impact by having both sides understand each other through interpretation, you know you've done your job."

21 July 2008