Harrison Butker, the Kansas City Chiefs kicker, has found himself at the heart of a controversy after receiving outrage for words made during a college commencement speech.
Butker spoke at Benedictine College in Kansas earlier this week, offending many when he labeled Pride Month as a sin and discussed the responsibilities of men and women in society.
After his remarks went viral, the NFL issued a statement distancing itself from Butker.
“In a statement obtained by TODAY.com, the NFL’s senior vice president and chief diversity and inclusion officer, Jonathan Beane, said the kicker ‘gave a speech in his personal capacity.'”
“His opinions do not represent the NFL as an organization. The NFL remains unwavering in its commitment to inclusion, which only strengthens our league.”
While Butker has not been disciplined for his statements, a Change.org petition attempting to get him fired by the Chiefs has received over 150,000 signatures.
Via Change.org
We demand accountability from our athletes, who should be role models for respecting all individuals regardless of ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation. We urge the Kansas City Chiefs’ management to remove Harrison Butker immediately for his inappropriate behavior.
Please sign this petition if you support our fight against prejudice and believe in building an inclusive society in which everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
The Chiefs have yet to comment on Butker’s speech.
