The mayor of Kingston, Ontario, expressed amusement at Donald Trump’s decision to rename Lake Ontario as Lake America. Mayor Bryan Paterson, along with many Canadians, found the move to be laughable and utterly ridiculous. Prime Minister Mark Carney also denied the name change for Canadians, emphasizing that the lake’s title originates from the Wendat word Ontari’io, meaning “the lake is beautiful, the lake is big.”
Carney highlighted the lake’s longstanding history, dating back over 400 years, predating both the Confederation of Canada and the Declaration of Independence of the United States. The Wendat Nation, represented by Grand Chief Pierre Picard, condemned the renaming as an attempt to erase their cultural heritage.
Kingston, deeply connected to Lake Ontario, has rejected the idea of changing the lake’s name on a whim from the White House. The city’s growth and prosperity have been intertwined with the St. Lawrence River, Rideau Canal, and Lake Ontario. Kingston residents have a strong bond with the water, engaging in various activities along its shores.
Despite Trump’s executive order, Rochester, New York’s city council affirmed its commitment to continue using the original name, Lake Ontario, recognizing the lake’s cultural significance. Mayor Paterson and council members have opted not to engage with Trump’s actions, dismissing them as frivolous and unworthy of a response.
In the face of the ongoing trade war, Kingston has displayed a Canadian flag at city hall, symbolizing unity and resilience. Mayor Paterson emphasized the enduring friendship between border communities and reiterated that relationships will outlast political figures like Donald Trump.
