Colton Underwood Criticizes Harrison Butker for Insensitive Remarks on LGBTQ+ Community

Colton Underwood Condemns Harrison Butker’s ‘Crippling’ Graduation Comments About LGBT+ Community

Colton Underwood and Harrison Butker. Getty Images (2)

Former football player Colton Underwood did not approve of Harrison Butker's graduation speech, especially his comments about Pride Month.

In a video shared on Instagram on Friday, May 17, Underwood, 32, expressed his thoughts on Butker's speech. He acknowledged Butker's freedom of speech and the importance of his faith but believed that with the platform he has, Butker had a responsibility to inspire and empower students as they move forward in life.

He continued, “To say, ‘The deadly sins of pride,’ knowing there’s at least one LGBTQ+ student in that audience is just crippling. To hear that their life is a deadly sin on a day that is supposed to be exciting?”

Butker, 28, gave a speech at Kansas’ Benedictine College recently. In his address, the Kansas City Chiefs kicker made a pointed comment about the LGBTQIA+ community.

"Benedictine has transformed from a typical liberal arts school to a thriving beacon of light," Butker, a practicing Catholic, shared. "I'm certain the reporters at the AP never expected their attempt to criticize places like Benedictine to be met with excitement and pride instead of anger. This is not the pride associated with sin, but rather a God-centered pride that glorifies Him."

Colton Underwood Condemns Harrison Butker’s ‘Crippling’ Graduation Comments About LGBT+ Community

Colton Underwood, known for his appearance on The Bachelor, made headlines in April 2021 when he publicly came out as gay. Just two years later, he tied the knot with political strategist Jordan C. Brown. Throughout his journey of self-acceptance and coming out, Underwood has become a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.

Recently, Underwood shared his thoughts on Butker's graduation speech, expressing that he found it to be more "divisive" rather than an uplifting message to the 2024 graduates.

The former Bachelor expressed that Harrison should have focused on being more positive and less divisive. He emphasized the importance of spreading love, especially during these challenging times in the world.

In his social media post, Underwood recognized that Butker had the freedom to express his beliefs. However, he may not have considered the possible negative reactions that could result from his statements.

Underwood emphasized the importance of free speech while also reminding individuals to consider the impact of their words on others. Butker has not responded to the backlash regarding his speech, where he criticized IVF and surrogacy as family planning options. He also encouraged female graduates to prioritize being a stay-at-home homemaker over pursuing career ambitions.

Editor's P/S:

Colton Underwood's criticism of Harrison Butker's graduation speech highlights the ongoing tension between personal beliefs and public discourse. While Butker has the right to express his religious views, Underwood argues that as a public figure, he has a responsibility to promote inclusivity and support all students, regardless of their sexual orientation. Underwood's personal journey as a gay man who has faced discrimination underscores the importance of creating a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Butker's speech, which also criticized assisted reproductive technologies and encouraged traditional gender roles, reflects a conservative perspective on social issues. While some may share these views, it is important to recognize that they are not universally held. Underwood's advocacy for diversity and equality reminds us that progress towards a more just and equitable society requires open and respectful dialogue that values the experiences and perspectives of all members of our community.