“Greatest hits of bigotry”: NBC's Trenni Casey hits back at Harrison Butker for controversial commencement speech
Harrison Butker, after his commencement speech at Benedictine College, has found himself in deep waters. The Kansas City Chiefs kicker has been called out by the internet and several media personalities. NBC Sports Boston’s media member, Trenni Casey, is one of them.
After the speech went viral, the three-time Super Bowl winner’s name was on the tip of everyone’s tongue, although most of it was for the wrong reasons. There has been some support in respect of views being Butker’s and his freedom to express them. However, Casey gives a jolting view of the situation.
The host of the show ‘Don’t @ me,’ Casey, took time in her monologue to address the issues of freedom of speech and expression, considering Butker’s views.
“Contrary to what some may think I actually strongly believe in free speech and the right to hold opinions that are different from my own. I also believe there are consequences for speaking out," Casey said.
“But what I really believe is there is a big difference between an opinion and dehumanizing hateful speech.”
The host then took direct shots at the 28-year-old Chiefs man.
“He's allowed to align his views with the Catholic Church on sensitive topics. Those are his opinions, but that is not what he did," she said on the show. "Instead, the 28-year-old Chiefs kicker spent 20 minutes espousing the greatest hits of bigotry, antisemitism, misogyny, homophobia, anti-diversity.”
Harrison Butker holds several records for the Chiefs in the Super Bowls, including the longest-ever field goal at the last Super Bowl against the 49ers. However, the Chiefs have yet to comment on the entire situation, even when there’s a petition gaining traction to remove him from the roster.
NFL executive makes his stand clear regarding Harrison Butker's speech
Jonathan Beane, NFL senior vice president and chief diversity and inclusion officer, said in a statement:
“Harrison Butker gave a speech in his personal capacity. His views are not those of the NFL as an organization. The NFL is steadfast in our commitment to inclusion, which only makes our league stronger.”
Only time will tell whether the Chiefs also go the same route or wait for the controversy to slide off and stick by their player.