Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager Respond to Harrison Butker's Controversial Remarks on Women
Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager react to NFL star Harrison Butker's comments on women during a commencement speech, expressing their disagreement with his views and asserting their own perspectives.
Today, Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager shared their thoughts on Harrison Butker's recent college commencement speech. The Kansas City Chiefs kicker sparked controversy by suggesting that female graduates should prioritize being homemakers over pursuing successful careers. Butker stated, "Some of you may have successful careers, but most of you are probably more excited about marriage and having children."
Harrison praised his wife Isabelle Butker for finding true happiness in her role as a wife and mother. He mentioned that she willingly gave up her career to focus on homemaking, and the couple, married in 2018, have two children together.
During the episode of Today With Hoda & Jenna on Thursday, May 16, Bush Hager, 42, expressed gratitude towards her husband, Henry Hager. She credited him for supporting her as an equal partner, which she believes has contributed to her professional success.
"Who does Harrison think he is?" she joked. Kotb, 59, chimed in, saying, "Don't assume you know what we think. Let women speak for themselves."
The two hosts commended stay-at-home parents, with Bush Hager recognizing the valuable work they do. However, they also acknowledged that not all couples have the privilege of one parent staying at home while the other works. Bush Hager pointed out that the idea of one parent staying at home can be seen as elitist.
Today's Hoda Kotb, Jenna Bush Hager Slam Harrison Butker's Homemaker Comments: 'Don't Speak for Us'
Harrison Butker Christopher Trim/Cal Sport Media) Newscom/Mega
Kotb shared her thoughts with her cohost about the importance of individuals speaking for themselves. While acknowledging that Harrison may represent the views of many, she emphasized that no one can speak for everyone. Ultimately, women have the autonomy to make their own decisions.
Bush Hager brought up America Ferrara's impactful monologue from Barbie, where the character Gloria delves into the challenges of being a woman in today's society. Reflecting on the struggles women face, she noted that Harrison may not have experienced these complexities yet. She suggested that in his next life, he could offer a commencement speech on how to navigate these issues.
The former First Daughter shared a recent incident where her husband, Hager, was a calming presence after a busy day. She expressed gratitude for his steadiness and support, acknowledging how he helped her feel grounded. She encouraged women to find a partner who can help them navigate life's challenges.
She also highlighted examples of women who are successfully managing on their own, like Hoda Kotb who is coparenting her daughters with her ex-fiancé. She emphasized the importance of having a strong support system, whether it's through a partner or a village of loved ones.
Kotb concluded the conversation by saying, “There are numerous ways to lead a meaningful life. Some may include having children, while others may not. Some may entail staying at home, while others may not. Some may consist of volunteering only. And that's perfectly fine.”
Today's Hoda Kotb, Jenna Bush Hager Slam Harrison Butker's Homemaker Comments: 'Don't Speak for Us'
Following Harrison's commencement speech, a number of celebrities, including Maria Shriver, have criticized him. Hoda Kotb referenced Shriver during a discussion with Jenna Bush Hager on 'Today.'
Shriver, 68, shared her thoughts on the value of women's choices in a recent social media statement on Wednesday, May 15. She emphasized that it is unfair to diminish women's decisions outside of traditional roles like wife and mother.
Highlighting the historical struggles of women, Shriver pointed out the significant milestones achieved through revolutions such as gaining the right to vote, access to birth control, financial independence, maternity leave, pay equity, and representation in elected positions. These achievements have paved the way for women to have diverse roles and opportunities in society today.
Editor's P/S:
The discussion sparked by Harrison Butker's commencement speech highlights the ongoing debate about women's roles in society. While Butker's views may reflect traditional societal expectations, they fail to acknowledge the diverse aspirations and capabilities of modern women. As Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager rightly pointed out, women should not be limited to a single path but should have the freedom to pursue their own dreams and aspirations.
It is important to recognize that not all women share Butker's belief that homemaking is the ultimate fulfillment. Many women find satisfaction and purpose in their careers, while others may choose to balance both family and work. The decision of whether or not to stay at home is a personal one that should be made by each individual based on their own circumstances and values. Society should strive to support women in making their own choices and provide them with the resources and opportunities to succeed in whatever path they choose.
