Kelly Stafford, wife of Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, responded to Harrison Butker’s commencement speech at Benedictine College. She took issue with his remarks towards women about to graduate, as well as his comments on IVF and gender ideologies. Stafford expressed her disagreement with Butker’s suggestion that a woman’s biggest success story would be being a mom and a wife, emphasizing that it is a woman’s choice to pursue a career, motherhood, or both. She criticized the notion that women have been “diabolically lied to” and called for building each other up rather than tearing each other down.
Stafford also addressed Butker’s comments on IVF, which she said hit home for her. Butker argued that IVF was playing God, while Stafford sees it as a miracle that helps women who struggle to get pregnant. She defended the choice of IVF and surrogacy, highlighting that many moms who used these methods are raising their children well. Stafford emphasized that everyone deserves the opportunity to have children, regardless of how they are conceived.
In her response, Stafford emphasized the importance of not passing judgment on others, including gay people, as well as the need to lift each other up rather than tearing each other down. She highlighted the importance of making choices for oneself and living with the consequences, rather than letting societal expectations dictate one’s path. Additionally, she stressed the importance of supporting and encouraging individuals in the roles they choose, whether as homemakers, career women, or a combination of both.
Stafford shared her thoughts further in a separate Instagram post, underscoring the importance of building up both men and women and allowing individuals to choose their own paths. She recognized that not every woman’s story is the same, and that societal pressure can lead to imposter syndrome and feelings of not belonging. Stafford acknowledged that while people may not agree on everything, the ultimate goal is to create a better world for future generations, which can be achieved by supporting and encouraging individuals in their chosen roles.
Overall, Kelly Stafford’s response to Harrison Butker’s commencement speech focused on advocating for women’s autonomy and the importance of making choices that align with one’s values and desires. She rejected the idea that women’s success is limited to traditional roles of motherhood and wifehood, emphasizing that each person should be free to define their own path. Through her remarks, Stafford underscored the need for mutual respect, understanding, and support as individuals navigate their unique journeys in life.
