A novel initiative has been launched in response to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s mention of the term “hydronym,” aimed at promoting awareness and safeguarding Lake Ontario’s environment. London-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 national charity in Toronto dedicated to preserving the lake’s cleanliness and safety.
Gregary Ford, vice-president and waterkeeper of the charity, expressed enthusiasm for the newfound interest in Lake Ontario, sparked by discussions around its name in light of U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposition to rename it “Lake America.” Carney swiftly responded to this proposal on social media, affirming the lake’s enduring identity as Lake Ontario.
The term “hydronym” refers to the official name of a body of water, a word that captured public attention following Carney’s use of it. Ford, residing in Dundas in Hamilton near Lake Ontario, admitted to researching the term himself despite his water-related profession.
Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes situated between Ontario and New York, derives its name from the Huron-Wendat word “oniatarí:io,” meaning “lake of shining waters.” The province of Ontario, established in 1867, draws its name from this prominent waterbody.
Political figures in both Canada and the U.S. have criticized Trump’s executive order to rename Lake Ontario. Ontario Premier Doug Ford recently unveiled a sign in Winona asserting the lake’s original name, receiving support from various American politicians across party lines.
The creation of the T-shirts by Branded By Collins was inspired by a suggestion from the public relations firm Curious Public. Managing partner Steve Ryall shared his pride in contributing to the initiative, highlighting the company’s Canadian roots and commitment to supporting the cause.
The ongoing “hydronym” campaign, initially offering hats and now expanded to include T-shirts, sweaters, and hoodies in black, red, and white, donates ten dollars from each sale to the charity. This fundraising effort aids in promoting water quality monitoring and advocacy for Lake Ontario.
Gregary Ford collaborates closely with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the New York State Department of Environment and Conservation, navigating the challenges posed by the executive order to rename the lake. Despite these tensions, Ford noted a resurgence of Canadian pride and a growing interest in understanding the lake’s Indigenous heritage and environmental conservation.
With Lake Ontario facing various stressors like climate change, invasive species, and microplastics, Ford emphasized the importance of collective action through initiatives like the current campaign to safeguard the lake’s well-being and foster a stronger bond with this vital water resource.