The most important symbol to many Pacific Northwest Native Canadian people is the Raven bird who is considered the Creator's assistant. It is said that the Raven could transform into anything. He was responsible for supplying the rivers and seas with fish and put the sun in the sky. That is why the Raven is sometimes referred to as the 'bearer of light'. Interestingly enough, the Raven's antics were thought to be motivated by greed. It 'was also said that he loved to tease and trick that gave him the reputation of being a crook. Despite his selfishness, the Raven is also a cultural hero since his mischievous actions always helped the world.
According to a Pacific Northwest Native Canadian legend, an old chief hid the sun in a box. The Ravens turned into a pine needle, which fell in drinking water that the daughter of the chief drank. She became pregnant and a son was born. One day, the chief finally gave into the Raven's (now disguised as his grandson) whining and allowed him to play with the sun in the box. Once the box was out, the Raven broke it and turned back to its original bird. He got the sun in its beak and flew towards the sky, the sun setting in its right place.
According to the Pacific Northwest Native Canadian people, gifts with the prestigious Raven symbol are appropriate for a respected person or a hero.
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