Harrison Butker stands by commencement speech: ‘Not people, but Jesus Christ I’m trying to please’

The Kansas City Chiefs kicker appeared at the “Courage Under Fire Gala” in Nashville on Friday, which was presented by the Regina Caeli Academy.

The academy “encourages our students to strive for excellence in academics as well as in virtuous living, self-discipline, and accountability through a classical education taught in light of the Catholic tradition,” according to its website. Butker has been on the academy’s board of directors since last year.

Butker took the stage at the gala and received a rousing ovation before yet another speech in which he doubled down on his faith and his comments, despite the scrutiny he has faced.

“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,” Butker said. “If it wasn’t clear that the timeless Catholic values are hated by many, it is now.”

Butker said he understands that he has become a “more polarizing” figure the more he has spoken out about his beliefs — but he will never care what people think of him.
Our love for Jesus, and thus, our desire to speak out, should never be outweighed by the longing of our fallen nature to be loved by the world. Glorifying God and not ourselves should always remain our motivation despite any pushback, or even support. I lean on those closest to me for guidance, but I can never forget that it is not people, but Jesus Christ who I’m trying to please.”