A Michigan CEO has shortened her visit to Halifax due to threats she received following a viral Facebook photo showing her and three family members wearing “Lake America” sweatshirts. The photo, posted on September 11 by Jane Smith, CEO of Family First Credit Union in Saginaw, gained attention online. In the image, Smith and her family members are seen smiling at the airport before heading to Halifax for what was planned as a 10-day trip.
The photo sparked controversy, especially in Canada, shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump renamed Lake Ontario to “Lake America” amid trade tensions between the two countries. Canadians expressed disapproval of the photo, with some criticizing the visitors for disrespecting the local community while expecting good service and hospitality.
Following the backlash, Smith clarified in an interview with ABC12 News that the image was artificially generated as a joke and not meant to make a political statement. She explained that the sweatshirts were not real, and the image was altered using ChatGPT before being shared on social media without the AI disclaimer by her sister.
The situation escalated to the point where Smith and her family decided to return to Michigan earlier than planned due to receiving death threats. Smith expressed regret over the incident, acknowledging that the image was insensitive and in poor judgment. The board of directors at Family First Credit Union also disapproved of the post and emphasized their support for Canadian neighbors.
The Halifax District RCMP stated that they could not confirm any police investigation related to the incident unless charges were filed or there was an operational necessity. Smith issued an apology, recognizing the offensive nature of the image and taking full responsibility for its creation and dissemination.
In response to Trump’s proposed renaming of Lake Ontario, there has been criticism and opposition from both sides of the border. Canadian officials reaffirmed their commitment to referring to the lake as Lake Ontario, while U.S. lawmakers introduced a bill to prevent the renaming, criticizing the president’s priorities amidst other pressing issues.
The controversy surrounding the “Lake America” photo underscores the sensitivities and tensions surrounding national symbols and cross-border relations between the United States and Canada.