NFL Issues Statement After Players Speech
On Saturday, Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker delivered a powerful commencement speech at Benedictine College, espousing Christian values to a group of graduates. However, Butker's comments have sparked controversy, with the NFL now stating that they disagree with his views.
In his speech, Butker criticized President Joe Biden for his pro-abortion stance and urged male graduates to embrace their masculinity. He also championed motherhood, telling female graduates that there is no higher calling than being a homemaker. The NFL's statement has led to questions about the league's stance on traditional Christian values and the controversial actions of former player, Colin Kaepernick.
Butker's speech at the Christian university centered on the current administration's stance on abortion and its impact on society. He also spoke about the "cultural emasculation of men" and the value of traditional masculinity. Butker's comments have drawn both praise and criticism from viewers, with some praising his unapologetic approach and others questioning the appropriateness of his speech at a graduation ceremony.
WOW: #Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker RIPS President Joe Biden & says he’s delusional.
“He has been so vocal in his support for the murder of innocent babies that I'm sure to many people it appears you can be both Catholic and pro-choice”
(@dannydeurbina)
pic.twitter.com/UK2tcnV3gi— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) May 13, 2024
However, the NFL has distanced itself from Butker's remarks. In a statement to People, NFL Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Jonathan Beane clarified that Butker's views are his own and do not represent the NFL's stance on inclusion. Beane noted that the NFL is committed to diversity and inclusion, but also emphasized that Butker's comments are his "personal views" and not the league's.
The league's stance on Butker's speech has raised comparisons to its handling of former player Colin Kaepernick. Kaepernick famously protested racial injustice by taking a knee during the national anthem, a gesture that sparked controversy and divided public opinion. Despite the outcry, the NFL never publicly disagreed with his actions or statements, leading some to question the difference in the league's response to Butker's speech.
One key factor to consider is the context in which Butker and Kaepernick made their respective comments. Butker was speaking at a Christian university to a group of graduates who are likely to share his traditional Christian values.
In contrast, Kaepernick's protests occurred on live television before NFL games, reaching a much larger and more diverse audience. While Butker's speech was not broadcast live on a large platform, Kaepernick's protests were inescapable for NFL fans.
Furthermore, the NFL's response to Butker's speech also raises questions about the league's stance on social justice issues. In 2019, the league launched the "Inspire Change" program, a social justice initiative aimed at addressing causes of racial inequality and injustice.
The program has been praised for its efforts but has also faced criticism for donating to groups that advocate for defunding or abolishing the police.