• Kansas City Chiefs’ Harrison Butker gave a controversial commencement speech at Benedictine College, touching on topics such as abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and the role of women
• The NFL made it clear that Butker’s views in the speech were his own and do not represent the league as a whole
• Butker quoted Taylor Swift in his speech and made statements regarding the LGBTQ+ community, marriage, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Here is what happened:
The recent commencement speech given by Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kan., has stirred controversy due to the topics he touched on. Addressing issues ranging from abortion to LGBTQ+ rights, Butker’s speech garnered criticism for his personal views. The NFL quickly clarified that Butker’s statements do not reflect the league’s stance, emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Butker’s speech also included a quote from Taylor Swift’s song “Bejeweled,” sparking further discussion and debate.
Butker’s comments on women’s roles and the LGBTQ+ community have been particularly scrutinized. He expressed a traditional view on gender roles, suggesting that many female graduates prioritize marriage and motherhood over career success. Additionally, he condemned Pride Month as promoting “dangerous gender ideologies.” The kicker also linked societal issues like abortion and media values to what he described as “the pervasiveness of disorder.” His speech touched on various sensitive topics, reflecting his personal beliefs rather than representing the NFL as a whole.
Despite the backlash, Butker’s speech has sparked conversations about the intersection of sports, personal beliefs, and societal issues. His words have ignited debates on inclusivity, gender roles, and cultural values. As reactions continue to pour in, it remains clear that individual statements made by athletes, even outside their professional capacity, can have a significant impact and provoke important discussions on social issues in the public sphere.
