The NFL has distanced itself from comments made by kicker Harrison Butker during his recent commencement address at Benedictine College.
Butker’s speech on May 11 at Benedictine College stirred controversy as he addressed sensitive topics such as the LGBTQ+ community, working women, and abortion rights.
Commenting on May 15, the NFL stated that Butker’s views do not reflect those of the organization. Jonathan Beane, the NFL’s senior vice president and chief diversity and inclusion officer, clarified, “Harrison Butker gave a speech in his personal capacity. His views are not those of the NFL as an organization. The NFL is steadfast in our commitment to inclusion, which only makes our league stronger.”
In his speech, Butker discussed various personal beliefs regarding issues such as abortion, in vitro fertilization (IVF), surrogacy, and President Joe Biden. He also referred to Pride Month as representing “deadly sins.” He urged men to “be unapologetic in your masculinity” and to “fight against the cultural emasculation of men.”
These comments were met with widespread disapproval. Former Kansas City commissioner Justice Horn criticized Butker, stating, “Harrison Butker doesn’t represent Kansas City nor has he ever. Kansas City has always been a place that welcomes, affirms, and embraces our LGBTQ+ community members.”
Butker’s reference to Taylor Swift, an ally of the LGBTQ+ community, also drew ire. A post from OutSports commented, “One of the worst parts of this NFL player’s awful speech is that he quoted a Taylor Swift song before telling women they should be homemakers and serve their man’s career.”
Directly addressing female graduates, Butker commended them on their achievements but pivoted to what he described as “diabolical lies” told to women. He stated, “Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world, but I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world.”
Public Enemy founding member Flavor Flav, a recent advocate for women by sponsoring the Olympic water polo team, responded to Butker, saying, “Sounds like some players ‘need to stay in their lanes’ and shouldn’t be giving commencement speeches.”
