In Nuxalk Indigenous culture, orcas (killer whales) are powerful symbols of family, unity, and connection to ancestors. They represent harmony and strength within the family structure, often seen as protectors of their kin and the community. Orcas are believed to embody the spirits of departed loved ones, maintaining a spiritual link between the living and the deceased. Their presence in stories and art emphasizes loyalty, respect, and the importance of relationships. As guardians of the sea, they also symbolize balance and the interconnectedness of all life.