The mayor of Kingston, Ontario, responded to Donald Trump renaming Lake Ontario to Lake America by expressing amusement and disbelief. Mayor Bryan Paterson conveyed that the prevailing reaction in the community was laughter and described the decision as absurd.
This sentiment was echoed by numerous Canadians, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, who emphasized that the lake’s name originates from the Wendat word Ontari’io, meaning “the lake is beautiful, the lake is big.” Carney highlighted the historical significance of the name, dating back over 400 years.
The Wendat Nation also condemned the renaming, with Grand Chief Pierre Picard expressing outrage and viewing the change as an attempt to erase their history.
Paterson emphasized the importance of Lake Ontario to Kingston, emphasizing that its name holds deep significance for the city. He asserted that the community rejects the renaming as a mere joke and affirmed that iconic locations like Lake Ontario Park will retain their original names.
In Rochester, New York, the city council unanimously declared their intent to continue using the traditional name, Lake Ontario, emphasizing the cultural legacy and Indigenous history associated with the Great Lake.
Paterson and other council members dismissed Trump’s actions, opting not to dignify the move with a response. They emphasized the unity and resolve of the community in the face of such provocations, underscoring the enduring friendship between border communities and the lasting relationships that transcend political developments.