A recent social media post from the United States Department of Labor has sparked significant controversy for its perceived references to extremist ideologies. On September 29, 2023, the official Labor Department account on X (formerly Twitter) shared an image featuring the Lincoln Memorial alongside 11 stars and the phrase “Americanism Will Prevail,” which critics argue contain “Nazi dog whistles.”
The image depicts the renowned Lincoln Memorial with 11 stars arranged around the statue’s head. The accompanying text reads, “The fight for Western Civilization has begun – and Americanism will Prevail,” presented in a font style reminiscent of Gothic typefaces. Critics quickly noted the implications of using such a font, which has historical ties to the Nazi regime in Germany.
Controversial Symbolism and Font Choices
Many commentators have pointed out that the choice of 11 stars is particularly alarming. Historically, the Confederacy, which saw a secession of states from the Union during the Civil War, is sometimes represented with 11 stars on its flags. The use of 11 stars in this post has led to accusations of promoting a troubling legacy associated with racial division and loss.
X user Patrick Skinner, a law student with over 65,000 followers, remarked, “What a coincidence they used 11 stars just like the racist loser Confederacy, over President Lincoln’s head.” He further criticized the choice of font, likening it to Germanic styles associated with the Third Reich, suggesting a deliberate attempt to invoke controversial historical imagery.
The font, known as Blackletter or Fraktur, was used in Germany until the Nazi regime prohibited it in 1941 on the grounds that it was “non-Aryan.” Critics have highlighted this connection as particularly troubling, with some users on X stating that the administration staff behind the post were “not even trying to hide it.”
Reactions from the Public and Political Figures
Responses to the post have been swift and vocal. X user Martyn Schmoll, who frequently critiques the Trump administration, noted the irony in the choice of font, stating, “The use of a Blackletter typeface here is chef’s kiss.” He suggested that the creators of the post might have been inspired by Nazi graphic standards manuals.
Others, like user Gangsta Dreski, expressed disbelief at the apparent openness of the dog whistles, indicating a lack of subtlety in the messaging. This has raised concerns about the implications of such imagery coming from an official government source.
The incident has prompted discussions about the responsibility of public officials in their communications and the potential for imagery to evoke harmful historical connotations. Critics argue that using such symbols can contribute to a divisive political climate and undermine the values of inclusivity and unity.
As the story continues to unfold, the Department of Labor has not issued a public statement addressing the backlash. The implications of this post may have broader repercussions, both politically and socially, as public scrutiny of government communications remains high.
