The NFL issued a statement distancing itself from the speech given by Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker at a commencement address at Benedictine College, where he encouraged women graduates to embrace the role of a “homemaker”, criticized the LGBTQ community, and President Biden’s stance on abortion. Butker received backlash for his comments, with many taking to social media to express their disapproval. The league clarified that Butker spoke in a personal capacity and reiterated their commitment to inclusion, stating that his views do not represent those of the NFL as an organization.
During his address, Butker praised women for their accomplishments but suggested that their ultimate goals are marriage and family. He credited his own success to his wife, who he described as a homemaker, and questioned the emphasis on titles and promotions in women’s careers. He also criticized Pride month, referring to it as a “deadly sin sort of pride”, and spoke out against President Biden’s stance on abortion, calling it “delusional”. Butker highlighted the link between Catholicism and controversial issues, urging that simply identifying as Catholic is not enough.
The Chiefs, Butker’s team, did not comment on his speech. Butker, a three-time Super Bowl champion, was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the 2017 draft but ultimately joined the Chiefs and has played in 107 games for them since then. Despite his success on the field, Butker’s recent commentary has caused a stir and raised questions about his personal beliefs and their alignment with the values of the NFL. The league’s senior vice president and chief diversity and inclusion officer emphasized that the NFL is committed to inclusion, and Butker’s views do not reflect the ideals of the organization.
The controversy surrounding Butker’s speech has brought attention to the intersection of sports, personal beliefs, and social issues. While athletes are often seen as role models, their views and statements can sometimes lead to division and criticism. The debate over Butker’s address at Benedictine College highlights the complexities of navigating personal and professional identities in the public sphere. The NFL’s response underscores the importance of maintaining inclusivity and respect within the sports community, regardless of individual opinions expressed by players. As the story continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing conversation around diversity, acceptance, and the responsibility of public figures to uphold these values.
