In an exclusive interview with Liam Mooney, the owner of an Ottawa apparel company, he revealed that their “Lake Ontario” hats have been incredibly popular following U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order to rename the lake. The hats, featuring the Great Lake’s original name, were swiftly put up for sale online by Jackpine, a Canadian company, immediately after the order was signed by Trump, who sought to rename the lake as “Lake America.”
Mooney, the founder of Jackpine, mentioned that the idea for the design came to him the night before the hats were launched. He expressed that the quick response was essential given the circumstances. Jackpine, co-owned by Mooney and his wife Emma Cochrane, gained previous fame for their “Canada Is Not For Sale” hats, notably worn by Ontario Premier Doug Ford.
Mooney emphasized his commitment to promoting Canadian patriotism and supporting local manufacturing by using their products to activate the country’s industrial base. The move to release the “Lake Ontario” hats coincided with escalating trade tensions between Canada and the U.S., resulting in retaliatory tariffs imposed by both nations.
The executive order by Trump, altering the name of Lake Ontario on U.S. maps, has been met with strong opposition in Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighted the historical significance of the lake’s name, originating from the Wendat word “Ontari’io,” which predates significant events in both Canadian and American history.
Additionally, the response to the “Lake Ontario” hats has been overwhelming, with orders pouring in not only from within Canada but also from international locations like Paris, Tokyo, London, and Berlin. Mooney noted that the global support for Canada extends beyond borders, with people worldwide showing solidarity.
As the trade war continues to impact businesses, some Canadian companies have found ways to leverage the situation for business opportunities. In a similar vein, the success of the “Elbows Up” apparel from companies like Timeless Memories and Shop Love Collective has demonstrated the resilience and creativity of Canadian businesses amidst challenging trade dynamics.
Despite potential criticism of capitalizing on political tensions, Mooney maintained that their actions are driven by a genuine sense of patriotism and a desire to support Canadian industries. By providing avenues for individuals to express their sentiments and contribute to local manufacturing, Jackpine aims to contribute positively to Canada’s economic landscape.
