A new initiative has been launched inspired by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s use of the term “hydronym” to raise awareness and promote environmental protection for Lake Ontario. London, Ontario-based apparel company Branded By Collins has introduced T-shirts featuring the slogan, “My hydronyms are Lake & Ontario,” with a portion of the sales proceeds benefiting Swim Drink Fish Canada, a Toronto-headquartered charity dedicated to safeguarding the lake’s well-being.
Gregary Ford, the charity’s vice president and waterkeeper, expressed enthusiasm about the growing conversation surrounding Lake Ontario, emphasizing the significance of people taking pride in the natural landmark. The campaign was sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to rename Lake Ontario to Lake America during recent trade tensions with Canada.
Carney swiftly responded to Trump’s suggestion via social media, affirming the historical and enduring name of the lake as Lake Ontario. The term “hydronym” refers to the official name of a body of water, generating widespread interest following Carney’s use of it. Ford, residing in Dundas, Hamilton, near Lake Ontario, admitted to researching the term himself, highlighting its appeal in conveying the essence of naming and representation.
Lake Ontario, known as one of the Great Lakes, borders Ontario and New York, with its name originating from the Huron-Wendat word “oniatarí:io,” meaning “lake of shining waters.” The province of Ontario derived its name from this picturesque body of water established in 1867.
Political leaders from both Canada and the U.S. have criticized Trump’s executive order to rename Lake Ontario, with Ontario Premier Doug Ford symbolically unveiling a sign in Winona affirming the lake’s traditional identity. The T-shirt initiative by Branded By Collins was birthed from a collaboration with public relations firm Curious Public, reflecting a sense of national pride and support for Lake Ontario.
The campaign initially featured hats but has expanded to include a range of apparel in black, red, and white colors. A portion of the sales proceeds from each item, priced between $30 and $50, is directed to the non-profit organization supporting initiatives like real-time water quality monitoring and advocacy for Lake Ontario’s preservation.
Ford highlighted the ongoing collaboration with U.S. environmental agencies despite the naming dispute, emphasizing the importance of unity in safeguarding the lake amid various environmental challenges. The tensions have sparked renewed interest in understanding the lake’s Indigenous heritage, its interconnectedness with neighboring Great Lakes, and the imperative to enhance its conservation efforts.
As the campaign gains momentum, Ford underscored the urgency of addressing the lake’s vulnerabilities attributed to factors such as climate change, invasive species, and microplastics. The initiative not only educates individuals on terms like “hydronyms” but also fosters a deeper bond with Lake Ontario and a collective commitment to its protection.