Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker is facing criticism for his recent commencement speech at Benedictine College, where he made controversial remarks regarding gender roles, LGBTQIA+ rights, and other social issues.
During his speech, Butker expressed his views on topics such as abortion, IVF, surrogacy, euthanasia, and what he referred to as 'degenerate cultural values.' He also criticized Pride Month, describing it as an example of 'deadly sins' taught in church.
Addressing the audience, Butker emphasized traditional gender roles, suggesting that women's primary focus should be on homemaking and raising children. He encouraged male graduates to embrace their masculinity and resist societal pressures that he described as emasculating.
Notably, Butker quoted a lyric from a Taylor Swift song in his speech, which further fueled the backlash online. Many individuals, including fans of the Chiefs and Swift, condemned Butker's remarks as bigoted, misogynistic, and homophobic.
Despite the criticism, neither Taylor Swift nor Travis Kelce, Butker's teammate, have publicly responded to the controversy. Both Swift and Kelce have previously shown support for LGBTQIA+ rights and other progressive causes.
The Kansas City Chiefs organization has not issued a statement regarding Butker's speech at the time of reporting.
