Ontario Premier Doug Ford revealed a new sign for Lake Ontario in Hamilton on Saturday, countering U.S. President Donald Trump’s attempt to rename it “Lake America” amid escalating tensions and trade disputes. Ford emphasized that the lake will always be known as Lake Ontario globally, despite Trump’s efforts to change its name. The unveiling of the sign, reading “Lake Ontario Now and Always,” coincided with heightened tensions between Canada and the U.S. following failed trade negotiations on August 21. Prime Minister Mark Carney deemed the agreement unviable, leading to the announcement of retaliatory measures starting on September 8.
Trump’s initial threat to rename Lake Ontario came amid a war of words with Ford, where both leaders exchanged insults. Trump signed an executive order on Thursday officially renaming the lake to “Lake America,” citing Canada’s challenging behavior in trade dealings and accusing the country of unfair practices. This move sparked disbelief among Canadian officials, with Carney and Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston affirming that the lake will forever be known as Lake Ontario.
Ford, standing firm on the issue, mentioned receiving support from governors who pledged to uphold the name Lake Ontario. He reiterated the commitment to safeguarding Ontario’s sovereignty and standing up against bullying tactics. Ford also emphasized Ontario’s importance as the economic powerhouse of Canada and expressed unity in protecting the province’s residents.
Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes situated between Ontario and New York, holds significance in the region’s history. The lake derives its name from the Huron Indigenous people’s term “oniatarí:io,” meaning “lake of shining waters.”
