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Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker has found himself at the center of a heated national debate following his commencement speech at Benedictine College. Butker's address on May 11, which emphasized traditional Catholic values and roles for women, sparked significant controversy. In his first public appearance since the uproar, Butker defended his beliefs during a speech at the Courage Under Fire Gala in Nashville on May 24.
At the gala, hosted by the Regina Caeli Academy, Butker acknowledged the mixed reactions to his previous remarks, expressing surprise at the intensity of the backlash. "The theme for tonight's gala, Courage Under Fire, was decided many months ago, but it now feels providential that this would be the theme after what we have all witnessed these last two weeks", he said. "If it wasn't clear that the timeless Catholic values are hated by many, it is now".
During his speech at Benedictine College, a Catholic institution, Butker had suggested that female graduates would find the most fulfillment in marriage and motherhood. He also voiced his opposition to abortion and IVF, prompting widespread debate.
Reflecting on the controversy at the gala, Butker stated, "Over the past few days, my beliefs or what people think I believe have been the focus of countless discussions around the globe. At the outset, many people expressed a shocking level of hate. But as the days went on, even those who disagreed with my viewpoints shared their support for my freedom of religion".
Butker emphasized the personal nature of his faith and the polarizing effect it has had. "In my seven years in the NFL, I've become familiar with the positive and negative comments, but the majority of them revolve around my performance on the field. But as to be expected, the more I've talked about what I value most, which is my Catholic faith, the more polarizing I have become",he said.
Despite the backlash, Butker found solace in the support he received from various quarters. "I am humbled by the support I've received from all walks of life", he noted. Drawing inspiration from the courage of saints and martyrs, he expressed his commitment to speaking out for his beliefs, regardless of the consequences. "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 controversy surrounding Butker's remarks has elicited responses from notable figures, including his Chiefs teammates and celebrities. Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce expressed respect for Butker's kindness and family values while distancing himself from the views expressed in the speech. "I can't say I agree with the majority of it or just about any of it outside of just him loving his family and his kids", Kelce said.
"My hope is that tonight's theme and our mission will embolden others, that many more will be unapologetic of their Catholic faith and never be afraid to speak out for truth, even when it goes against the loudest voices", Butker concluded.
