“What’s the Big Deal?”—A Masterclass in Missing the Point
Bill Maher, the self-proclaimed champion of free speech and edgy comedy, recently took a break from his usual rants about the “woke left” to weigh in on the Harrison Butker graduation speech controversy. Spoiler alert: Maher just doesn’t get it. Shocking, right?
Maher’s Empathy Deficit
On the latest episode of Real Time, Maher admitted he was confused about why people were upset with Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker’s commencement speech at Benedictine College. Butker’s address included pearls of wisdom about condemning abortion, euthanasia, IVF, surrogacy, and the LGBTQ community. Oh, and he also suggested that women should stick to being homemakers. Apparently, Maher can’t see what all the fuss is about.
A Tale of Two Standards
What Maher failed to grasp is the double standard inherent in Butker’s speech. Men rarely get lectured on how to live their lives, let alone told their primary purpose is to be a breadwinner or caregiver. But women? They’re constantly bombarded with messages about their “place” being in the home.
“I’m Not Like This Guy, But…”
Maher started by emphasizing “how much this guy is not like me.” Butker is religious, loves marriage, and kids—three things Maher has publicly expressed disinterest in. So, clearly, if someone’s different from Maher, their views must be perfectly valid. Right?
Modern Misogyny: A Maher Blind Spot
Quoting Butker, Maher said, “Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world. But I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world.” According to Maher, this statement is “fairly modern” and not a “big crime.” Because, you know, implying that women’s primary fulfillment should come from marriage and motherhood is so avant-garde.
Choice, Schmice
Maher continued to demonstrate his profound understanding of women’s issues by framing Butker’s remarks as a simple matter of choice. “Can’t that just be a choice too?” he mused, conveniently ignoring the societal pressures and systemic inequalities that have historically forced women into domestic roles.
Missing the Forest for the Trees
Maher’s confusion highlights a larger issue: his inability to grasp why reinforcing outdated gender roles, especially at a graduation, is problematic. Suggesting women prioritize homemaking at a time meant to celebrate their academic and professional achievements sends a clear message about where society thinks they belong.
The NFL’s Clarification
Amidst the backlash, the NFL felt compelled to clarify that Butker’s views are not those of the organization. Probably a smart move, given the league’s ongoing PR challenges.
Maher’s Ironic Take
Ending on a note of irony, Maher commented on the disconnect between young people’s abhorrence of Butker’s views and their support for other controversial causes. It’s almost like Maher is implying that standing up for equality and human rights is somehow inconsistent. Newsflash, Bill: it’s possible to oppose regressive gender norms and support human rights simultaneously.
Maher’s take on the Butker controversy serves as a reminder that some people are perpetually out of touch. Here’s hoping the next generation can do better, even if their commencement speakers can’t.
