A recent social media post from the United States Department of Labor has ignited controversy, drawing sharp criticism for its alleged use of symbols associated with extremist ideologies. The post, published on the department’s official account on X (formerly Twitter) on March 15, 2024, features an image of the Lincoln Memorial with eleven stars surrounding the statue’s head and the phrase “Americanism Will Prevail” in a blackletter gothic-style typeface.
The choice of the eleven stars has raised eyebrows, as it is often linked to the Confederacy, which had eleven states that seceded from the Union during the American Civil War. Critics were swift to point out that the traditional representation of patriotic imagery typically includes thirteen stars, symbolizing the original thirteen colonies. The Confederate flag, known as the “Stars and Bars,” also prominently features eleven stars, a detail that has not gone unnoticed by online commentators.
Online responses to the post have been notably critical. Law student Patrick Skinner, who has over 65,000 followers on X, remarked, “What a coincidence they used eleven stars just like the racist loser Confederacy, over President Lincoln’s head.” His comments highlight the perceived intentionality behind the imagery. The choice of font has also been scrutinized, with many noting its association with early Nazi Germany. The blackletter font, which resembles Franktur calligraphy, was used in Germany until 1941 when the Nazi regime banned it, claiming it was “non-Aryan.”
Another user, Martyn Schmoll, who frequently shares content critical of the Trump administration, stated, “The use of a Blackletter typeface here is chef’s kiss.” His comment underscores the idea that the design choices of the post may have deeper implications than mere coincidence. Critics argue that the administration’s staff behind the post are “not even trying to hide it,” as expressed by X user Gangsta Dreski.
The post has sparked discussions about the broader implications of such imagery in political discourse. As social media continues to serve as a platform for official messaging, the potential for misinterpretation or the promotion of extremist ideas raises questions about the responsibilities of public officials.
As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Department of Labor will respond to the backlash and whether any clarification will be issued regarding the intent behind the post. The situation serves as a reminder of the power of imagery in shaping public perception and the importance of careful communication in political messaging.
