Key Takeaways:

• The State Department will ditch Calibri and bring back Times New Roman.
• Secretary of State Marco Rubio says serif fonts look more professional.
• The switch aims to end what Rubio calls a wasteful DEIA program.
• The move adds to ongoing debates over diversity and inclusion policies.

Times New Roman Takes Over State Department

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has ordered a return to Times New Roman for official documents. The decision reverses the previous use of Calibri, a modern sans-serif font. A December memo states that serif fonts add decorum and professionalism. It also calls the DEIA program that chose Calibri wasteful.

In 2023, the Department of State adopted Calibri under former Secretary Antony Blinken. The idea was that Calibri’s simpler shapes help people with disabilities. It also matched the default font in many software programs. However, Rubio disagrees with this view.

Rubio’s memo argues that serif fonts like Times New Roman better fit diplomatic work. It claims that decorative serif edges guide the reader’s eye across lines. Therefore, Times New Roman should become the standard typeface again.

This change is more than just a font swap. It fuels a wider debate over diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility programs. Some people praise the return to tradition. Others say it ignores real accessibility needs.

Why Times New Roman Beats Calibri

Font style can shape how we feel about official work. For example, serif fonts often appear more formal. They have small lines at the ends of letters. These lines can make printed text easier to read in long passages.

On the other hand, sans-serif fonts like Calibri use simpler shapes. Developers often choose them for on-screen reading. They remove extra details that might blur at small sizes. As a result, some people find sans-serif fonts clearer on digital displays.

However, Rubio’s order states that serif fonts restore gravity to official documents. It also frames DEIA efforts as costly and unnecessary. Moreover, it warns that such programs distract from the department’s core mission.

Rubio emphasizes that Times New Roman’s structure enhances legibility in print and on screen. He believes the font’s classic look suits government memos and cables. Therefore, diplomats must switch all written work to Times New Roman.

What This Means for Diplomats

Diplomats will need to update their templates and reformat archived documents. This change affects memos, reports, and all official correspondence. Staff will likely spend time converting files from Calibri to Times New Roman.

Meanwhile, some employees may argue that accessibility needs will be overlooked. For instance, people with dyslexia sometimes prefer sans-serif fonts. They say the simpler letters reduce confusion. Critics of the new order warn that accessibility could suffer.

On the other hand, supporters believe that a uniform serif font will strengthen the department’s brand. They point out that many high-level reports and letters historically use Times New Roman. They argue that the font shift marks a return to diplomatic decorum.

The Broader DEI Battle

This font fight is part of a larger struggle over DEIA programs. Former President Trump pushed to eliminate many diversity and equity initiatives. He claimed they undermined merit-based hiring. He also cut funding for programs tied to minority-serving institutions.

Under the Biden administration, DEIA policies regained support. The 2023 font change to Calibri was one example of that support. It aimed to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. Yet critics labeled it one more example of overreach.

Rubio’s order frames the Calibri choice as another unnecessary DEIA expense. It argues that the department can maintain high standards without such programs. However, opponents say that diversity and inclusion remain vital for effective diplomacy.

Furthermore, some Republicans have voiced concern that rolling back DEIA programs goes too far. After Trump axed a grant program for Hispanic-serving colleges, lawmakers warned about unintended harm. They say that diversity efforts help recruit talented people from all backgrounds.

Transitioning Back to Tradition

Implementing Rubio’s directive will take time. Departments must audit which documents use Calibri and convert them. Training sessions might teach staff how to adjust margins and spacing. Even stationery and letterhead will need redesigning.

However, the change also sends a clear message. It signals a shift in priorities. It underlines an emphasis on formality over modern design. It casts DEIA initiatives as expendable rather than essential.

Many observers will watch closely to see if this font swap affects document readability. They will also note how quickly the State Department adapts. Meanwhile, the debate over diversity and inclusion will continue to play out in other policies.

In the end, a simple font choice reveals deeper cultural battles. It shows how even small details can ignite big arguments over values and efficiency.

FAQs

Why did Rubio switch back to Times New Roman?

He believes serif fonts add decorum and professionalism. He also aims to end what he views as a wasteful DEIA program tied to Calibri.

How does Times New Roman differ from Calibri?

Times New Roman is a serif font with decorative line endings. Calibri is a sans-serif font with simpler shapes, often used for on-screen text.

Could this change affect accessibility?

Yes. Some say sans-serif fonts help readers with dyslexia or other visual challenges. Critics worry that returning to a serif font could reduce readability for some.

Will other agencies follow this font directive?

It’s possible. Similar debates over formality and tradition might prompt other offices to reconsider their font choices.