Former Seattle Seahawk Ricardo Lockette told Garfield High students that "men must take the lead." Some female students walked out in protest. (Photo: KOMO News)

SEATTLE -- Former Seahawk Ricardo Lockette sparked a walkout by some female students at Garfield High School on Tuesday when he urged men to "take the lead."

Lockette's point was to urge male students to step in when a female student is being bullied or harassed.

"You guys are responsible for these young ladies. You are the captain. You are the head," he said.

The assembly was of student athletes who are working to change social norms and to promote healthy relationships.



One female student questioned Lockette's approach.

"I don't need a man in my life to tell me what I can and can't do," she said.

Lockette told her that "you can't do everything by yourself....We need each other."

Then he added, "If your daddy wasn't there, you wouldn't be in that chair."

The walkout followed.

Lockette didn't object and kept speaking and answering questions.



The students who walked out returned after Lockette left the stage. One told KOMO NewsRadio that she was "infuriated" by Lockette's comments.











