A fresh donation initiative is riding on Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent mention of the term “hydronym” to raise consciousness and safeguard Lake Ontario. Branded By Collins, a London, Ont., clothing brand, has launched T-shirts printed with the words, “My hydronyms are Lake & Ontario,” with a portion of sales benefiting Swim Drink Fish Canada, a Toronto-based charity committed to lake preservation.
Gregary Ford, the vice-president of the charity, expressed enthusiasm about the newfound interest in Lake Ontario sparked by Carney’s response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to rename the lake. Ford, residing in Dundas in Hamilton near the lake, confessed to looking up the term “hydronym” himself, emphasizing its captivating nature in emphasizing the significance of names.
Lake Ontario, part of the Great Lakes system, lies between Ontario and New York, deriving its name from the Huron-Wendat term “oniatarí:io,” signifying “lake of shining waters.” Carney reiterated the lake’s traditional name, dating back over 400 years, in the face of Trump’s renaming bid.
The collaborative effort between Branded By Collins and Curious Public resulted in the creation of the T-shirts, reflecting a shared pride in Canadian identity amid ongoing trade tensions. The campaign, initially featuring hats, has expanded to include a range of clothing items, with a portion of proceeds aiding Swim Drink Fish Canada’s advocacy for lake conservation.
Ford highlighted the mounting environmental challenges facing Lake Ontario, from climate change to pollution, underscoring the urgent need for collective action. The campaign, while born out of political discord, has ignited a renewed appreciation for the lake’s heritage and Indigenous roots, fostering a deeper connection to the natural environment.
