The Calibri typeface has become the newest casualty within the government workforce, dismissed under the current administration due to its links to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives. In a move that seems almost satirical and is ripe for comedy sketches, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has officially prohibited the font, instructing diplomats to switch to Times New Roman for all formal documents. This directive came to light after a leaked internal memo on the subject was obtained and reported.

Calibri, a sans-serif font, was originally implemented in 2023 during the previous administration. The selection was made by the department's since-disbanded DEI office, which was closed as part of broader anti-DEI policies. The font was adopted specifically to improve readability for individuals with visual impairments. Sans-serif fonts lack the small decorative strokes at letter ends, offering cleaner lines and somewhat wider spacing, which many believe enhances accessibility for those with dyslexia or low vision—though studies on the precise impact of serifs remain mixed.

In his memo, Rubio designated Times New Roman as the official font for his tenure, claiming it will "restore decorum and professionalism" to departmental correspondence. He acknowledged that Calibri was not the "most illegal, immoral, radical or wasteful" DEI example he could envision, but still criticized it for contributing to what he called "the degradation" of the State Department's official communications.

Reports indicate there was internal discontent when Calibri was first introduced in 2023. Font preferences often stir strong, partisan feelings, much like loyalties to sports teams, with everyone holding personal favorites and aversions. It is worth noting that even the reporting newspaper abandoned Calibri nearly twenty years ago. The State Department has not yet provided a response to requests for comment.