Now that Google Maps has renamed Lake Ontario to Lake America for U.S. users, Carson’s Pizzeria in Niagara Falls has opted to reflect this change in their menu. Co-owner Richard Carpenter stated that the name change was a humorous response to the U.S. government’s actions, following President Donald Trump’s executive order amid rising trade tensions. The restaurant has renamed its Buffalo chicken sandwich to “Ontario wing sauce chicken sandwich” and its Chicago Deep Dish to “Thorold-style Deep Dish Pizza.” This playful menu adjustment has garnered mixed reactions from Canadians, with some, like Katherine McMichael of Lady Lou Collective, expressing the view that Lake Ontario’s name will not change despite these efforts. McMichael highlighted the impact of U.S.-Canada trade tensions on her business, indicating that she has ceased shipping orders to American customers due to possible duties.
Why It Matters
The naming of geographic locations can have cultural and political implications, especially during periods of heightened nationalistic sentiment. The change from Lake Ontario to Lake America by Google Maps reflects a broader trend of symbolic gestures in response to political actions, such as trade wars which can affect businesses on both sides of the border. Historical tensions between the U.S. and Canada, particularly in trade, have often led to local businesses adapting their strategies to maintain customer relations and navigate economic challenges. This situation underscores the interconnectedness of the two countries and how cultural identity can be influenced by political decisions.
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