A Change.org petition calling for the release of Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker from the team and the NFL has gained significant traction following his controversial graduation speech at a private college in Kansas

A Change.org petition calling for the release of Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker from the team and the NFL has gained significant traction following his controversial graduation speech at a private college in Kansas. Butker, a devout Catholic, delivered a speech at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, last weekend.

In his address, he congratulated the female graduates and suggested that many of them might be more excited about getting married, having children and becoming stay-at-home mothers, rather than pursuing their careers. Additionally, Butker criticized Pride month, a key period for the LGBTQ+ rights movement, and took aim at President Joe Biden’s stance on abortion.

The 28-year-old, who has won three Super Bowls with the Chiefs, is now facing backlash for his remarks. The petition demanding his removal has garnered over 70,000 signatures, a significant increase from 30,000 on Wednesday evening. On Wednesday alone, more than 25,000 people signed the petition, which aims to reach 50,000 signatures. “The harmful remarks made by Harrison Butker, kicker of the Kansas City Chiefs, during his commencement address at Benedictine College were unacceptable,” the petition reads.

“His comments were sexist, homophobic, anti-trans, anti-abortion and racist. These dehumanizing remarks against LGBTQ+ individuals, attacks on abortion rights and racial discrimination perpetuate division and undermine human rights. “These comments reinforce harmful stereotypes that threaten social progress. They create a toxic environment that hinders our collective efforts towards equality, diversity and inclusion in society. It is unacceptable for such a public figure to use their platform to foster harm rather than unity.

“It’s important to note that these types of discriminatory attitudes contribute significantly towards societal issues such as hate crimes which have been on the rise in recent years (source: FBI Hate Crime Statistics). Furthermore, they can lead to increased mental health issues among targeted communities (source: American Psychological Association).

“We demand accountability from our sports figures who should be role models promoting respect for all people regardless of their race, gender identity or sexual orientation. We call upon the Kansas City Chiefs management to dismiss Harrison Butker immediately for his inappropriate conduct. “Please sign this petition if you stand with us against discrimination and believe in fostering an inclusive society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.” Selected in the seventh round of the 2017 NFL Draft from Georgia Tech, Butker has established himself as one of the league’s top kickers.