Published on May 26, 2024, 12:49 am

Football star Harrison Butker, the Kansas City Chiefs’ kicker, has been in the midst of a contentious debate following his bold proclamation about Christian values during his commencement speech for the 2024 graduating class at Catholic Benedictine College. This event led to backlash from left-wingers both within and outside of the National Football League (NFL).

Jonathan Beane, senior vice president and head diversity, equity, and inclusion officer of the NFL, attempted to separate the organization from Butker’s views. He stated that Butker’s perspective was personal and doesn’t mirror those of the NFL as a whole. His statement highlighted the league’s value on inclusion.

A wave of disparagement targeted Butker’s Catholic faith. Labeling him an “extremist,” an online petition managed to gather over 200k signatures seeking for his dismissal due to alleged discriminatory remarks. However, amidst this rancor from certain sections of society, support for this outspoken Christian footballer came with equal vocal power.

During a press conference held recently, Andy Reid, coach of Kansas City Chiefs, defended his player fervently. The notion that everybody differs in their origins, religious inclinations or races and respects each other constituted his argument for America being a great nation.

Addressing a question posed by a reporter about whether Butkers’ speech denigrated women—referring to comments praising his wife and highlighting motherhood virtues —Reid affirmed that everyone is entitled to their opinion which he respects.

Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs’ quarterback echoed similar sentiment about valuing character above agreeing entirely with someone’s beliefs or statements. He acknowledged Butker as someone who cares about others around him and strives to impact the society positively.

Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner expressed congruent thoughts by indicating that dichotomy in perception persists just like in any other American public — something they appreciate.

Adding her voice to this issue was former ESPN “SportsCenter” host Sage Steele who in a video lauds Butker’s speech as “beautiful.” She conveyed her appreciation for husbands who publicly express their gratitude towards wives, wondering if that is not pro-women?

Support for Butker came from religious quarters as well. Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of the Archdiocese of San Francisco and Bishop Thomas Paprocki of the diocese of Springfield, Illinois defended him online and through columns respectively, applauding his commitment to family values.

Additionally, Bishop James Johnston of Kansas City-St. Joseph backed Harrison Butker’s right to express both criticism and praise about where we stand as a church and a nation.

Interestingly, jersey sales featuring Butker’s name soared amidst this unfolding controversy refuting accusations labeling him “cultish” or “extremist.”

In these times when trusted news is paramount, it’s evident from this string of events involving Harrison Butker that holding Christian worldview can indeed be controversial but there are always supporters standing ready to rally behind such true-hearted assertions—this observance showing that real news has varying angles.