Kansas City Chiefs React to Harrison Butker's Controversial Speech: Insights from Players and Staff

Everything the Kansas City Chiefs Have Said About Harrison Butker Scandal

Harrison Butker. Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker has been in the spotlight recently for his commencement speech at Benedictine College in Kansas.

During his speech on May 11, 2024, Butker caught people's attention by specifically acknowledging the women graduates. He praised their achievements and commended them for their hard work. In a direct address to the female graduates, he highlighted the challenges they may have faced due to societal expectations.

Butker then expressed his belief that many of the women in the audience may be looking forward to successful careers, while acknowledging that the majority might be most excited about marriage and having children.

He faced criticism for his comparison of Pride Month in the LGBTQIA+ community to "deadly sins" and his statement that men play a crucial role in setting the tone of society. He warned that without this influence, disorder, dysfunction, and chaos could prevail.

Stars such as Maren Morris, Maria Shriver, Whoopi Goldberg, and Hoda Kotb shared their thoughts on Butker's comments that went viral online. Along with them, members of the Kansas City Chiefs organization also commented on the controversy that was unfolding off the football field.

Although the team did not release an official statement right away, former chair of the Kansas City LGBTQ+ Commission, Justice Horn, called on the organization to address the issue. Horn emphasized the importance of the community knowing the values of the organization they support financially. He stated, "It is crucial for the team to show their support and stand with the community during times of harm, rather than staying silent."

Keep reading to see what players and members of the NFL have to say about Butker’s message to graduates:

NFL 

The NFL's Chief Diversity Officer, Jonathan Beane, stated that the organization disagreed with Butker's comments.

Beane explained to Outsports that Harrison Butker's speech was his own personal opinion and not representative of the NFL. The NFL remains dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion, believing that it strengthens the league.

Gracie Hunt

Everything the Kansas City Chiefs Have Said About Harrison Butker Scandal

During an appearance on Fox & Friends, the Chiefs heiress, Gracie Hunt, shared her thoughts on Butker's comments. She mentioned that her own experience involved having a wonderful mother who was able to stay at home with her and her siblings while they were growing up. Hunt acknowledged that not all women have the option to make that choice, but for her and her siblings, having their mom at home was a significant factor in shaping who they are today.

Tavia Hunt

Tavia Hunt was asked if she understood what Butker was trying to say. She replied, "For sure, and I really respect Harrison and his Christian faith and what he’s accomplished on and off the field."

Tavia, who is married to Kansas City Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt, recently took to Instagram to express her support for the values that Harrison Butker spoke about in his speech.

In her post, Tavia shared her belief in the importance of education and pursuing dreams, especially for her daughters. She wants them to understand that they have the ability to achieve anything they desire, as long as it is in line with their faith.

Additionally, Tavia emphasized the significance of finding a life partner who loves and respects you, and the joy of building a family together. She sees this as one of the greatest blessings that life has to offer.

Chris Jones also emphasized the importance of engaging in debates with others rather than resorting to criticism. He highlighted the significance of avoiding taking statements out of context and expressed his concern about the negative impact of spreading hateful comments. Jones stressed the need for fostering dialogue and promoting values in society, advocating for less hatred and more understanding.

Everything the Kansas City Chiefs Have Said About Harrison Butker Scandal

Chris Jones. Ryan Kang/Getty Images

Brooke Schwartz

The defensive tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs is showing support for his teammate. Jones expressed his love for Butker on social media in response to a petition asking for Butker to be released from the Chiefs. He wrote, "I love you @buttkicker7! My brotha 🫂."

Brooke, who is married to former Kansas City Chiefs player Mitch Schwartz, criticized the team’s kicker for his speech. She expressed her thoughts on the matter through her Instagram Stories. Despite Mitch being teammates with him for years, she felt the need to speak out.

In a separate Story slide, Brooke reiterated her disapproval of the NFL player’s comments. She found it disturbing that he told young women on their college graduation day that their main goal should be to become someone's wife. She emphasized that women should have the freedom to choose their own paths in life, without being dictated by men.

Editor's P/S:

Harrison Butker's commencement speech at Benedictine College sparked controversy due to his comments about women and the LGBTQIA+ community. While he praised female graduates for their achievements, he also suggested that their primary goal should be marriage and children. He compared Pride Month to "deadly sins" and asserted that men hold a crucial role in shaping society. These remarks drew criticism from celebrities, LGBTQIA+ advocates, and even members of the Kansas City Chiefs organization.

The NFL's response to Butker's speech underscores the league's commitment to diversity and inclusion. However, some players, such as Chris Jones, emphasized the importance of engaging in respectful dialogue rather than resorting to criticism. While the controversy highlights the ongoing debate about gender roles and societal expectations, it also raises questions about the role of professional athletes in shaping public discourse. Butker's comments have sparked a necessary conversation about the values and beliefs that we hold as a society and the importance of fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for all.