A novel initiative inspired by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s reference to the term “hydronym” has been launched to promote awareness and conservation efforts for Lake Ontario. Branded By Collins, a London, Ont., clothing company, has introduced T-shirts featuring the slogan “My hydronyms are Lake & Ontario,” with a portion of the sales proceeds being donated to Swim Drink Fish Canada. This national charity, based in Toronto, is dedicated to fostering connections with the lake and safeguarding its well-being.
The fundraising campaign aims to spark conversations about Lake Ontario and nurture a sense of pride among the public, according to Gregary Ford, the vice-president and waterkeeper at the charity. The idea for the initiative emerged following a social media exchange between U.S. President Donald Trump and Carney, where Trump proposed renaming the lake to Lake America as part of a trade dispute. Carney’s response emphasized the historical significance of the name Lake Ontario and its enduring relevance.
The term “hydronym” denotes the proper name for a body of water, and Carney’s use of this word generated significant interest online. Ford, who resides in Dundas in Hamilton near Lake Ontario, admitted to researching the term himself, noting its appeal in highlighting the importance of names and their significance.
Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes situated between Ontario and New York, derives its name from the Huron-Wendat term “oniatarí:io,” meaning “lake of shining waters.” The lake’s name has historical roots predating the establishment of both Canada and the U.S. as sovereign nations.
Various political figures in both countries have criticized Trump’s executive order proposing the renaming of Lake Ontario. Ontario Premier Doug Ford unveiled a sign reaffirming the lake’s original name in Winona, emphasizing the enduring nature of its identity.
Branded By Collins initiated the production of the T-shirts in collaboration with public relations firm Curious Public. The managing partner, Steve Ryall, expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the company’s pride in supporting Canadian initiatives such as this one.
The campaign, initially offering hats, has expanded to include a range of apparel items like T-shirts, sweaters, and hoodies in black, red, and white colors. A portion of the proceeds from each sale goes towards Swim Drink Fish Canada’s activities, including water quality monitoring and advocacy efforts.
Ford underscored the importance of community action in safeguarding Lake Ontario against various threats, such as climate change, invasive species, and pollution. He emphasized that the campaign serves as a catalyst for fostering a deeper understanding of the lake’s significance and promoting proactive measures for its protection.
