Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker stirred controversy with his commencement address at Benedictine College, where he criticized Pride month, working women, President Biden's COVID-19 leadership, and abortion. Delivering his speech at the Catholic college in Atchison, Kansas, Butker condemned what he described as "dangerous gender ideologies," alluding to Pride month and lambasting the Associated Press for highlighting conservatism in the Catholic Church.
Known for his conservative Catholic beliefs, Butker also took aim at President Biden's policies, particularly his management of the COVID-19 pandemic. He argued that flawed policies and inadequate leadership have had adverse effects on major life issues such as abortion, IVF, and euthanasia, as well as a growing support for what he perceives as degenerate cultural values.
Directing his comments to the women in attendance, Butker suggested that their most significant role should be that of a homemaker, implying that their greatest fulfillment comes from marriage and motherhood. He shared his wife's journey, suggesting that her life truly began when she embraced her role as a wife and mother.
The Kansas City Chiefs declined to comment on Butker's remarks. Despite the controversy, Butker, a seventh-round pick in 2017, has emerged as one of the NFL's premier kickers, setting a franchise record with a 62-yard field goal in 2022 and helping the Chiefs secure two Super Bowl victories.
Off the field, the Chiefs have faced challenges, including a failed ballot initiative aimed at funding stadium renovations and a high-profile incident involving wide receiver Rashee Rice, who surrendered to Dallas police on multiple charges, including aggravated assault.