The 2024 graduation season seems to be marked by a series of unfortunate events, with yet another ceremony overshadowed by controversy. This time, it was the turn of Benedictine College students to endure a speech that left many bewildered and outraged, courtesy of NFL kicker Harrison Butker.
Butker, known for his role as the kicker for the Kansas City Chiefs, delivered a commencement speech that quickly went viral on TikTok, and not for the right reasons. In a jaw-dropping segment, Butker directed his advice specifically to female graduates, suggesting that they should prioritize becoming wives and mothers over pursuing careers. His remarks, which included glorifying the role of homemaker and attributing his success to his wife’s sacrifices, sparked widespread condemnation and disbelief.
TikTok users expressed shock and disbelief at Butker’s outdated and offensive comments, questioning how such remarks could be included in a graduation speech. Many wondered why the audience didn’t react more strongly, with some expressing that they would have booed loudly in protest.
Butker’s speech didn’t stop at controversial advice for women; he also urged male graduates to embrace traditional masculinity and criticized the LGBTQ+ community, displaying homophobia in the process. His attempt to quote Taylor Swift’s lyrics fell flat, further highlighting the tone-deaf nature of his speech.
Unsurprisingly, Butker’s remarks faced swift backlash online, with calls for him to be removed from the Kansas City Chiefs’ lineup. Former Kansas City commissioner Justice Horn joined the criticism, emphasizing that Butker’s views do not represent the inclusive values of the city.
As the controversy unfolded, some suggested that Butker should take responsibility for his words by financially compensating the students who endured his speech. Whether Butker will face any repercussions beyond public outcry remains to be seen, but his speech serves as a stark reminder of the importance of thoughtfulness and sensitivity when addressing diverse audiences, especially on significant occasions like graduation ceremonies.
