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” amidst rising tensions and trade disputes. Ford emphasized that the name will remain as Lake Ontario “now and forever,” asserting Canada’s resilience and strength.
The sign, displaying “Lake Ontario Now and Always,” was presented as tensions between Canada and the U.S. heightened after failed trade negotiations on August 21. Prime Minister Mark Carney deemed the agreement unworkable, leading to the announcement of retaliatory actions set to commence on September 8.
Trump’s initial threat to rename Lake Ontario came during a verbal dispute with Ford, where they traded insults. Despite Trump signing an executive order to change the name to “Lake America,” Ford and other Canadian officials reaffirmed their commitment to referring to it as Lake Ontario.
The move by Trump drew criticism in Canada, with officials expressing disbelief on social media. Carney reiterated that Canadians will continue to recognize the body of water as Lake Ontario, while Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston condemned the situation as “foolishness.”
Ford disclosed receiving support from governors who vowed to uphold the name Lake Ontario for the body of water. He emphasized Ontario’s significance as the “engine of Canada” and stressed unity in protecting the province’s people.
Lake Ontario, part of the Great Lakes system, lies between Ontario and New York and holds historical significance with its name originating from the Huron Indigenous people. The word “oniatarÃ:io,” meaning “lake of shining waters,” reflects the lake’s cultural heritage and importance.