Political leaders in Canada are strongly opposing a recent decision made by U.S. President Donald Trump to rename Lake Ontario to Lake America. They have expressed their disapproval, stating that the change is offensive and not recognized across the Canadian border.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford took to social media to affirm that the name of the lake remains unchanged. He emphasized, “To Canadians and the world, it will always be Lake Ontario.”
Similarly, Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles reiterated that the lake’s name remains unchanged, emphasizing its significance. Stiles shared a video on social media, stating, “It will forever be known as Lake Ontario.”
Trump issued an executive order to rename Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes situated between Ontario and New York. The province of Ontario, established in 1867, derived its name from this prominent body of water.
During a public appearance, Trump defended the renaming by referring to Canada as “entitled” and accused the country of unfair practices towards the U.S. He stated, “Canada wants state-like treatment, but it is not a state.”
The Wendat Nation strongly condemned Trump’s executive order, denouncing it as an attempt to erase their history. Grand Chief Pierre Picard expressed deep concern over the decision, emphasizing the lake’s significance to their culture and identity.
Picard highlighted that the U.S. Consul General in Quebec City will meet with the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra, to address the issue. He also emphasized the origin of the name “Ontario” from the Wendat word “Ontarïio’,” meaning ‘the lake is beautiful, great.’
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, representing the largest city on Lake Ontario’s shores, rejected the renaming, asserting that Trump’s actions would not weaken Canadian resolve. Prime Minister Mark Carney also weighed in, asserting that the lake’s name has historical significance dating back over 400 years.
Carney emphasized the importance of preserving names and traditions, stating, “This lake is known as Lake Ontario today and for all time.” Trump’s immediate implementation of the renaming evoked memories of his past decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.”