The Legend of the Summer Birds: Traditional Innu Story
Long ago, in the ancient times of the Indigenous peoples of Quebec, lived a great goddess who ruled over the seasons. Each year, she sent out birds to announce the arrival of summer. The birds, with their shimmering feathers and melodious songs, brought warmth and joy to the land.
But one summer, something unexpected happened. The birds, meant to bring back light and warmth, were late in arriving. In their absence, the earth remained cold and silent. The villagers were worried, because the harvest season had not yet begun, and the cold persisted.
The great goddess decided to understand what had happened. She sent a messenger spirit to find the birds and discover the reason for their delay. The messenger spirit traveled vast distances, crossing forests and mountains, until it found the birds gathered in a clearing.
The birds, though numerous and healthy, seemed hesitant. The messenger spirit asked why they hadn't yet departed to bring summer. The birds explained that they had been distracted by fleeting pleasures and had forgotten their sacred mission.
The messenger spirit brought the message back to the goddess, who realized that the birds had lost sight of their essential role. She decided to intervene to remind them of their responsibility. Gently, she reminded them of the importance of their mission and the impact they had on the lives of people and nature.
The birds, realizing the gravity of their oversight, set off again with renewed purpose. Upon arriving in Innu territory, they brought with them not only the warmth of summer, but also a new understanding of their role. The birdsong echoed once more through the forests, filling the air with music and life.
The Innu celebrated their return with gratitude and respect, acknowledging the precious lesson the birds had brought. Since that day, every summer, the birds return, not only to announce the warm season, but also to remind people of the importance of remaining true to their responsibilities and respecting nature's gifts.
This legend by Josephine Bacon testifies to the importance of birds in Innu culture and the sacred bond between Indigenous peoples and the natural world. It recalls the essential role of the guardians of the land, bravery in the pursuit of justice, and the seasonal return of birds that symbolize rebirth and natural balance.
Creations inspired by the spirit of legends
Each piece is handcrafted on the Nitassinan by the Ilnu craftsman Dave Verreault-Thisselmagan.
Indigenous dreamcatchers
Protection • Dreams • Guidance
View the collection
