In May 2024, Harrison Butker, kicker for the Kansas City Chiefs, gave a commencement speech at Benedictine College that generated controversy for his comments on traditional gender roles, criticism of Pride Month and emphasis on family life for women. During his speech, Butker stated:
“I can tell you that my beautiful wife Isabelle would be the first to recognize that her true fulfillment began when she embraced her vocation as a wife and mother.”
Related:
- Super Bowl 2025: date, time, halftime show and everything you need to know
- Where to watch the 2025 Super Bowl? TV channel and streaming where you can watch the game
- Super Bowl 2025 Halftime Show: Everything you need to know about Kendrick Lamar’s show
- Super Bowl Winners List: All the teams that have won the Super Bowl by year
- Gatorade Color Super Bowl: Odds, history and more about the traditional Gatorade bath
Despite criticism and being labeled intolerant on social media, Butker has stood firm in his beliefs, based on his Christian faith. The NFL distanced itself from his views, reiterating its commitment to inclusion. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid supported Butker’s character but avoided commenting on the content of the speech. Butker, who has three children, emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and remains unrepentant for his statements, focusing on his faith, family and football amid the controversy.
Super Bowl special: Everything you need to know about Eagles vs Chiefs
Recently, before Super Bowl LIX, Butker was again questioned about his speech and said he has nothing to apologize for, saying:
“If being a man of faith and sharing my beliefs makes me a controversial person, then so be it. I will not apologise for standing up for what I believe is right.”
Full support from the team
He noted that his comments have generated constructive conversations among his teammates, who, although they have diverse opinions, respect each other.
“It opened up a lot of good conversations and a lot of teammates had different opinions about it, but we all love each other in that locker room, and we all know who we are. I think everyone understood where I was coming from,” he told Chat Sports. “I know they respect me and respect what I have to say. I have nothing to apologize for.”
Butker has consistently defended his speech, pointing out that his intention was to honor the role of women who choose to be housewives and mothers, and that his words were not intended to belittle those who pursue professional careers, but to celebrate the decision to prioritize family life. In a subsequent interview, he reaffirmed his stance by saying:
“I’m not saying that a woman should not pursue her professional dreams, but I firmly believe that the role of mother and wife should not be belittled in our society.”