Harrison Butker Defends Controversial Commencement Speech, Emphasizes Catholic Faith

Sara Myers

9 months ago
Harrison Butker Defends Controversial Commencement Speech, Emphasizes Catholic Faith

In his first public comments following a controversial speech at a recent college commencement, Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker defended his address and emphasized his Catholic faith.

“If it wasn’t clear that the timeless Catholic values are hated by many, it is now,” Butker said during a speech at the “Courage Under Fire” gala in Nashville on Friday night.

The Nashville speech was posted to X by right-wing media outlet The Daily Wire.

Travis Kelce Responds to Butker’s Speech

This is the first time the three-time Super Bowl champion has spoken publicly about his commencement address at Benedictine College, a small Catholic college in Kansas, on May 11. During his address, Butker made comments interpreted by many as homophobic and sexist, including calling Pride Month a “deadly sin” and saying that a woman’s accomplishments in the home are more valuable than any academic or professional goals, among other things.

Fellow Chiefs star, Travis Kelce, recently responded to the commencement address, saying he does not agree with “just about any” of Butker’s views but values him as a teammate.

“I cherish him as a teammate. I think Pat (Mahomes) said it best where he is every bit of a great person and a great teammate,” Kelce said on the latest episode of the “New Heights” podcast he hosts with his brother, Jason.

Gala Hosted by Regina Caeli Academy

Friday night’s gala was hosted by Regina Caeli Academy – a hybrid campus/homeschool Catholic school group with several locations across the country. The gala boasted several other speakers including right-wing media personality and host at the Daily Wire, Matt Walsh.

“Over the past few days, my beliefs, or what people think I believe, have been the focus of countless discussions around the globe,” Butker, who is on the school’s board of directors, said.

Butker Reaffirms Commitment to Catholic Faith

Butker reaffirmed his commitment to his Catholic faith, saying, “Our love for Jesus and thus our desire to speak out should never be outweighed by the longing of our fallen nature to be loved by the world.”

During his speech, Butker referred to Saint Daniel, the biblical prophet who was thrown into a lion’s den for committing to prayer to God, despite a law that condemned worshipers to death.

“I can’t help but tremble at the thought of the courage many saints have shown in their lives,” Butker said.

Daniel was spared by God due to his commitment to faith, according to the Old Testament.

“Would I be so bold if the repercussion was what Daniel faced in being fed to lions? In reality, any courage I’ve shown will lead to some small suffering. And it will lead to some people maybe never liking me, but that could be God’s will,” the Chiefs kicker said.

NFL and GLAAD Respond

The NFL issued a statement earlier this month, saying Butker’s comments don’t reflect the views of the league.

Butker’s May 11 speech sparked criticism from LGBT advocacy organization GLAAD, which called his comments “a clear miss” and “woefully out of step with Americans about Pride, LGBTQ people and women.”

The sisters of Mount St. Scholastica monastery, a founding institution and sponsor of Benedictine College, also distanced themselves from Butker’s message. “The sisters of Mount St. Scholastica do not believe that Harrison Butker’s comments in his 2024 Benedictine College commencement address represent the Catholic, Benedictine, liberal arts college that our founders envisioned and in which we have been so invested,” they said in a statement. “Instead of promoting unity in our church, our nation, and the world, his comments seem to have fostered division.”

Related Articles

10 Tips For Improving Your Baseball Swing

10 Tips For Improving Your Baseball Swing

It's time to step up your game and take your baseball swing to the next level. Whether you're a beginner looking to refine your technique or a seasoned player aiming for perfection, these 10 expert tips will help you enhance your skills and dominate on the field....

The Ultimate Baseball Equipment Checklist For Players

The Ultimate Baseball Equipment Checklist For Players

Baseball players, preparation is key. Here is your ultimate guide to ensuring you have all the necessary gear before stepping onto the field. From gloves to cleats, this checklist will have you covered so you can focus on the game ahead. Stay equipped, stay ready, and...

A Complete Guide To Baseball Pitching Techniques

A Complete Guide To Baseball Pitching Techniques

Most aspiring baseball pitchers know that mastering pitching techniques is imperative to their success on the mound. From the grip to the delivery, each aspect of pitching plays a crucial role in fooling batters and keeping them off balance. In this comprehensive...

How To Choose The Right Baseball Bat For You

How To Choose The Right Baseball Bat For You

Just like picking the perfect glove or cleats, selecting the right baseball bat is crucial for a player's performance on the field. With various materials, lengths, weights, and league regulations to consider, finding the ideal bat can seem overwhelming. This guide...

Understanding Baseball Statistics – A Beginner's Guide

Understanding Baseball Statistics – A Beginner's Guide

Overwhelmed by the world of baseball stats? Fear not, as this beginner's guide will break down the key statistics you need to know to fully appreciate the game. From batting averages to earned run average (ERA), we'll decode the numbers and metrics that make up the...

The History Of Baseball – From Origins To Modern Day

The History Of Baseball – From Origins To Modern Day

Modern baseball traces its roots back to the 18th century when it was a simpler game played on local fields and sandlots. Over time, it evolved to become America's pastime, with legendary players, iconic stadiums, and thrilling World Series moments shaping its rich...

5 Essential Drills For Baseball Catchers

5 Essential Drills For Baseball Catchers

It's time to sharpen those skills behind the plate! As a baseball catcher, mastering these five imperative drills can take your game to the next level. From blocking pitches to footwork and agility, these exercises will help you become a defensive force on the field....

Injury Prevention Tips For Baseball Players

Injury Prevention Tips For Baseball Players

With the fast-paced nature of baseball, players are at risk of injuries that can hinder their performance and longevity in the game. In this informative post, we will discuss vital tips and strategies for baseball players to prevent injuries and stay healthy on the...

Skip to content