Ontario Premier Doug Ford revealed a sign for Lake Ontario in Hamilton on Saturday, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s suggestion to rename it “Lake America” amid rising tensions and trade disputes. Ford emphasized that the name will always remain as Lake Ontario, stating that despite Trump’s choice, the world will continue to recognize it by its original name. The unveiling of the sign, displaying “Lake Ontario Now and Always,” coincided with the escalating tensions between Canada and the U.S. after failed trade negotiations on August 21, leading to mutual accusations of seeking last-minute alterations.
In response to Trump’s threat to change the name of Lake Ontario, Ford and Trump engaged in a war of words, with Ford labeling Trump as a bully and Trump criticizing Ford as a less charismatic version of his late brother, Rob Ford. Trump subsequently signed an executive order to rename the lake as “Lake America,” citing difficulties in dealing with Canada and accusing the country of unfair practices.
Canadian officials, including Prime Minister Mark Carney and Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston, expressed disbelief and reaffirmed that the body of water will always be referred to as Lake Ontario. Ford also mentioned receiving support from governors who pledged to continue recognizing the lake by its original name. Emphasizing Ontario’s significance as the cornerstone of Canada, Ford reiterated the country’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty and standing up against bullying tactics.
Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes situated between Ontario and New York, holds historical significance as the province of Ontario derived its name from the lake. The name “Ontario” originates from the Huron Indigenous people’s term “oniatarÃ:io,” signifying “lake of shining waters.”
