Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker recently served as the commencement speaker at a private college in Kansas, where he delivered a roughly 20-minute-long speech covering various topics. During his address, Butker encouraged women in the graduating class to embrace their “vocation” as a “homemaker” and criticized Pride month and President Joe Biden’s stance on abortion and COVID-19 policies. The three-time Super Bowl winner also urged women to prioritize their roles as wives and mothers, emphasizing the importance of family and motherhood within the Catholic faith.
Responding to the backlash, the NFL clarified that Butker’s speech was delivered in his personal capacity and does not reflect the views of the organization as a whole. CatholicVote, a non-profit advocacy group, penned a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt, expressing support for Butker’s message and criticizing the league’s response. Butker, who received a standing ovation for his speech, also received backing from his teammate Chris Jones and CatholicVote, further emphasizing the positive reception of his address.
Gracie Hunt, the daughter of Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt, shared her perspective on the impact of staying at home with her mother during her childhood, underscoring the significance of a parent’s presence in shaping the lives of their children. Amid the controversy, demand for Butker’s Chiefs jersey surged, with fans showing support for the kicker by purchasing his merchandise. Additionally, Butker’s previous expressions of personal beliefs, including advocating for marriage and starting a family, further exemplify his commitment to sharing his values and advice with others, particularly within the context of his beliefs.
Butker’s speech at Benedictine College illustrates his willingness to speak out on topics that are important to him, even if they are controversial. Despite differing opinions on his remarks, Butker’s message resonated with many individuals, receiving praise from supporters and organizations alike. The attention generated by his speech also led to increased interest in his jersey, indicating continued fan support for the Chiefs kicker. Overall, Butker’s address serves as a reminder of the importance of sharing personal beliefs and values, even in the face of criticism, while also highlighting the impact of individual perspectives on broader societal discussions.
