June 3, 2025 — Kansas City, MO
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has ignited a wave of controversy across the NFL and beyond after publicly stating he will not participate in or celebrate Pride Month this June. During a press conference on Monday, the 66-year-old coach offered brief but pointed comments that quickly went viral.
“I’m not interested in celebrating something just because it’s ‘woke’ or trendy,” Reid said when asked about the team’s planned Pride events. “Pride Month doesn’t align with my values, and I don’t believe it deserves a special platform just because it’s politically fashionable.”
Reid did not elaborate further, but his remarks triggered immediate backlash from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, fans, and several NFL players, many of whom called his comments “disappointing” and “tone-deaf.” Social media was flooded with both support and condemnation, with hashtags like #PrideWithOrWithoutYou and #AndyReid trending nationwide.
The Kansas City Chiefs organization responded within hours, releasing a statement that emphasized the team’s continued support for diversity and inclusion:
“The Kansas City Chiefs are committed to creating a culture of respect, acceptance, and equality for all. We will move forward with our Pride Month events and remain proud allies of the LGBTQ+ community.”
This is not the first time the NFL has found itself in the center of cultural and political debates. With growing scrutiny around the league’s efforts toward inclusion, Reid’s comments risk placing one of the sport’s most respected coaches at odds with the league’s official messaging.
Former and current players, including Patrick Mahomes, have yet to comment on Reid’s statement, though sources close to the team say internal discussions are already underway.
As Pride Month continues, all eyes will be on Kansas City — not just for football, but for how America’s game navigates its role in the broader cultural conversation.
