State Department Reinstates Times New Roman, Phases Out Calibri Amid DEI Controversy
In a move that has sparked considerable discussion, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has mandated the return to Times New Roman as the official font for all State Department communications, effectively discontinuing the use of Calibri. This decision, detailed in a recently leaked memo, is part of a broader initiative to eliminate elements associated with diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEI) within the department.
Background on Calibri’s Adoption
Calibri, a sans-serif typeface, was introduced as the State Department’s standard font in 2023 during President Biden’s administration. The department’s DEI office, which has since been disbanded under Secretary Rubio, selected Calibri to enhance document readability, particularly for individuals with visual impairments. Sans-serif fonts, characterized by their clean lines and absence of decorative strokes, are often considered more accessible for readers with conditions such as dyslexia or low vision. However, research on the impact of serifs on readability remains inconclusive.
Rubio’s Justification for the Change
In the memo, Secretary Rubio emphasized that reinstating Times New Roman aims to restore decorum and professionalism to official documents. While acknowledging that Calibri is not the most illegal, immoral, radical or wasteful aspect of DEI initiatives, he criticized its use as contributing to the degradation of the State Department’s official correspondence.
Reactions and Implications
The decision has elicited mixed reactions. Font choices often evoke strong preferences, akin to allegiances in sports. Some department members expressed dissatisfaction when Calibri was initially adopted in 2023, indicating that font selection can be a contentious issue.
The broader implications of this change extend beyond typography. The shift from Calibri to Times New Roman symbolizes the current administration’s stance on DEI initiatives. By reversing a policy intended to promote accessibility, the administration signals a departure from previous efforts to accommodate diverse needs within the department.
Historical Context and Future Considerations
This is not the first time the State Department has altered its official font. In 2023, the department transitioned from Times New Roman to Calibri to align with modern readability standards and accessibility considerations. The recent reversal raises questions about the consistency and motivations behind such decisions.
As the State Department continues to navigate its policies and practices, the choice of font serves as a microcosm of the broader ideological shifts within the administration. Observers and stakeholders will be keenly watching how these changes affect the department’s internal culture and external communications.
