Harrison Butker is at the center of a heated debate after his recent commencement speech at Benedictine College. The Kansas City Chiefs kicker made controversial remarks touching on sensitive topics such as abortion, the LGBTQ+ community, and traditional gender roles, which have polarized public opinion and led to dueling petitions on Change.org.
One petition, which has quickly amassed nearly 150,000 signatures, calls for Butker‘s dismissal from the Chiefs. It accuses him of spreading harmful stereotypes and using his platform in a divisive manner.
This petition emerged just two days after his speech, which critics argue promoted outdated and discriminatory views.
Chiefs’ Harrison Butker gives misogynistic commencement speech aimed at women
Supporters also launch petitions
Conversely, Butker‘s supporters have launched their own petitions to keep him on the team and even to promote him. However, these petitions have gathered significantly fewer signatures and appear more fragmented.
The Chiefs organization has yet to comment on the situation, leaving fans and observers speculating on Butker’s future with the team.
“Harrison Butker gave a speech in his personal capacity,” noted Jonathan Beane, the senior vice president and chief diversity and inclusion officer at the NFL.
Patrick Mahomes reveals true feelings about controversial kicker Harrison Butker
“His views are not those of the NFL as an organization. The NFL is steadfast in our commitment to inclusion, which only makes our league stronger.”
This incident highlights the broader cultural and social divides present in today’s society, reflecting differing views on the roles and responsibilities of public figures in addressing such issues.
The final decision on his status with the Chiefs will ultimately lie with the team’s management, who have so far remained silent on the matter.
