Seneca Nation Calls for Reversal of Lake America Decision

Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca has demanded the revocation of the executive order signed by U.S. President Trump that changes the name of Lake Ontario to Lake America.

Emphasis on Treaty Violation

In a released statement, Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca stated that this name change violates the terms of the Treaty of Canandaigua signed in 1794.

Historical and Cultural Ties

The treaty, signed between President George Washington and the leaders of the Haudenosaunee confederacy, had established the boundaries of the Seneca Nation starting from Lake Ontario.

Origin and Meaning of the Name

While the name of the lake comes from a Huron indigenous word meaning sparkling waters, in the traditional Seneca language it is called sga:nyodai:yoh, which means beautiful lake.

Political Developments and Reactions

While the decision was made during trade disputes with Canada, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that this request would not be complied with.