Kingston’s Mayor Reacts with Laughter to Trump’s Lake America Renaming
The mayor of Kingston, Ont., Bryan Paterson, responded with amusement to Donald Trump’s announcement renaming Lake Ontario to Lake America. Paterson described the move as “silly” and “utterly ridiculous,” echoing the sentiments of many Canadians.
Prime Minister Mark Carney also joined the chorus of dissent, emphasizing that the lake’s name, deriving from the Wendat word Ontari’io, has a 400-year-old history that predates significant events in both Canadian and American history.
Grand Chief Pierre Picard of the Wendat Nation expressed outrage at the attempt to erase historical ties associated with the lake’s name, calling the change an affront to their heritage.
Paterson emphasized the deep connection Kingston has with Lake Ontario, highlighting its pivotal role in the city’s growth and identity. Residents of Kingston cherish their interactions with the lake, whether swimming, boating, or simply living along its shores.
In response to the renaming, Rochester, N.Y., reaffirmed its commitment to using the original name, with the city council issuing a proclamation rejecting the name change and honoring the lake’s Indigenous history.
Mayor Paterson advised that the best response to such “silliness” is to ignore it, emphasizing the unity and resolve of the community. He dismissed any notion of coveting or changing names to assert claims over neighboring territories, emphasizing the enduring value of friendship and relationships beyond political antics.
Overall, the community stands united in the face of such actions, with a Canadian flag proudly displayed at city hall symbolizing the strength and resilience in the face of challenges. Paterson concluded that friendship and relationships will endure long after the current political climate fades.
