The NFL is facing backlash after Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker gave a controversial commencement speech at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas. In his speech, Butker told women they should aspire to be homemakers and criticized Pride Month, President Joe Biden's policies on abortion, and LGBTQ+ rights.
The NFL quickly distanced itself from Butker's remarks, stating that they do not reflect the league's commitment to inclusion. A petition to have Butker removed from the Chiefs' roster has gained nearly 100,000 signatures, while a counter-petition in support of Butker has only gathered 800 signatures.
Butker, a known conservative Catholic, also quoted self-made billionaire Taylor Swift in his speech, referring to her as his "teammate's girlfriend." He went on to criticize the Catholic Church and media for promoting what he called "degenerate cultural values." The Georgia native also claimed that society is facing "disorder" due to bad policies and poor leadership, particularly in regard to issues such as abortion, IVF, surrogacy, and euthanasia.
Butker's comments have sparked outrage online and within the Kansas City community. Former Kansas City commissioner Justice Horn took to social media to denounce Butker, stating that the kicker does not represent the city and its values. The petition calling for Butker's dismissal highlights the harmful impact of his remarks on the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups. The petition's description labels Butker's speech as "sexist, homophobic, anti-trans, anti-abortion, and racist."
Butker's speech was met with both applause and criticism from the audience. Some praised him for speaking his personal beliefs, while others were shocked and appalled by the content of his speech. The kicker received a standing ovation from the graduates and attendees at the Catholic liberal arts school.
However, some graduates, like Elle Wilbers, were taken aback by Butker's comments on the LGBTQ+ community, calling them "horrible." There were also concerns raised about Butker's statements on women's roles and the pressure to choose between a career and being a stay-at-home parent.
The Chiefs, who are currently preparing for the upcoming NFL season, have not responded to the controversy surrounding Butker's remarks. The franchise declined to comment on the kicker's commencement address. Butker, who has been with the Chiefs since 2017, has become one of the top kickers in the league. He holds the franchise record for the longest field goal at 62 yards and has helped the team win two Super Bowls in the past three seasons.
Butker's speech has sparked a larger conversation about the role and responsibility of athletes to speak out on political and social issues. While some argue that Butker has a right to express his personal beliefs, others criticize him for using his platform to promote discriminatory views. The NFL, which has been working to make the league more inclusive and diverse, has made it clear that Butker's views do not align with the organization's values.
This controversy surrounding Butker's speech highlights the ongoing debates and tensions around issues of diversity and inclusion in professional sports. As the Kansas City Chiefs and the NFL continue to face criticism, it remains to be seen if the backlash will impact Butker's position on the team.