A fresh fundraising initiative is leveraging Prime Minister Mark Carney’s mention of the term “hydronym” to promote awareness and conservation efforts for Lake Ontario. London, Ont., clothing brand Branded By Collins has introduced T-shirts featuring the phrase, “My hydronyms are Lake & Ontario,” with a portion of the profits benefiting Swim Drink Fish Canada, a Toronto-based charity dedicated to safeguarding the lake’s environment.
Gregary Ford, vice-president and waterkeeper at the charity, expressed enthusiasm about the growing interest in Lake Ontario sparked by recent discussions. The concept for the T-shirts emerged following U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to rename Lake Ontario to Lake America during a spat over trade negotiations. Carney swiftly responded to Trump’s suggestion on social media, emphasizing the historical significance of the lake’s name.
The term “hydronym” refers to a water body’s proper name, a point that generated significant online buzz after Carney’s remarks. Ford, residing in Dundas in Hamilton near the lake, admitted to researching the term himself, emphasizing its appeal in highlighting the importance of names and their meanings.
Lake Ontario, part of the Great Lakes system and situated between Ontario and New York, derives its name from the Huron-Wendat term “oniatarÃ:io,” signifying “lake of shining waters.” Amid ongoing tensions over Trump’s executive order, political leaders from both nations have criticized the proposed renaming.
Branded By Collins’ initiative to produce the T-shirts was inspired by a suggestion from public relations firm Curious Public, with managing partner Steve Ryall highlighting the company’s Canadian pride and support for the cause. While the company’s customer base primarily comprises Canadians, Ryall acknowledged the broader impact of trade disputes and expressed hope for amicable resolutions between the two countries.
The campaign, initially featuring hats and now expanded to include T-shirts, sweaters, and hoodies in various colors, donates a portion of each sale to Swim Drink Fish Canada. Ford underscored the importance of collaborative efforts with U.S. environmental agencies despite the naming controversy, emphasizing the renewed interest in understanding the lake’s heritage and advocating for its preservation.
Amid environmental challenges such as climate change and pollution, Ford emphasized the campaign’s role in prompting collective action to safeguard Lake Ontario’s future. The ongoing discourse surrounding the lake serves as an opportunity to celebrate water heritage, Indigenous connections, and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural environment.