A novel fundraising initiative has been launched in response to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s use of the term “hydronym” to promote awareness and environmental conservation efforts for Lake Ontario. Branded By Collins, an apparel company based in London, Ont., has introduced T-shirts featuring the slogan, “My hydronyms are Lake & Ontario.” A portion of the proceeds from the T-shirt sales will be donated to Swim Drink Fish Canada, a national charity in Toronto dedicated to safeguarding the lake’s cleanliness and safety.
Gregary Ford, the vice-president and waterkeeper of the charity, expressed enthusiasm about the increased public discourse surrounding Lake Ontario, emphasizing the significance of people taking pride in the lake. The inspiration for the campaign stemmed from U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to rename Lake Ontario to Lake America, prompting Carney to assert the historical and cultural importance of retaining the original name.
The term “hydronym” refers to the formal name given to a body of water, sparking widespread interest following Carney’s use of the term. Ford, residing in Dundas in Hamilton near Lake Ontario, admitted that he, like many others, had to research the meaning of the word, highlighting its unique appeal in drawing attention to the significance of names and their representations.
Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes situated between Ontario and New York, derives its name from the Huron-Wendat term “oniatarÃ:io,” signifying “lake of shining waters.” The lake, established in 1867, has historically influenced the naming of the province.
Political figures in both countries have condemned Trump’s executive order proposing the name change, with Ontario Premier Doug Ford unveiling a sign reaffirming the lake’s original name in Winona. The initiative by Branded By Collins to create the T-shirts was initiated following a collaboration with public relations firm Curious Public, reflecting the company’s pride in supporting Canadian heritage and initiatives.
The campaign, initially featuring hats, has expanded to include T-shirts, sweaters, and hoodies in various colors, with a portion of the proceeds directed towards Swim Drink Fish Canada. Ford emphasized the ongoing challenges posed by environmental stressors on Lake Ontario and highlighted the campaign as a means to promote awareness and action for its protection.