Investigation into the Death of Nex Benedict: Bullying Over Gender Identity Sparks Tragic Incident at Owasso High School, Oklahoma – February 2024

long-tailed phrases:
– nonbinary teenager death Oklahoma
– scrutiny anti-trans policies renewed.

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Oklahoma Teen’s Death Sparks Outcry Over Bullying and Anti-Trans Policies

The tragic death of 16-year-old nonbinary high school student Nex Benedict in Oklahoma has brought attention to the issue of bullying and the impact of anti-trans policies on gender identity. Benedict, who identified as nonbinary and used they/them pronouns, passed away on February 8, one day after an altercation in a girl’s bathroom at Owasso High School. While the cause of death has not been officially determined, police have stated that it was not directly related to injuries sustained during the fight.

A vigil is planned for Sunday in Owasso to honor Benedict’s memory and raise awareness about the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth. The incident has prompted an independent investigation by Benedict’s family to uncover the circumstances surrounding the fight.

Following the news of Benedict’s death, calls to a national crisis hotline for LGBTQ+ youths in Oklahoma have surged by over 500%. Lance Preston, the founder of the Rainbow Youth Project USA, noted that the increase in calls reflects a deep sense of fear and vulnerability among LGBTQ+ young people, not just in Oklahoma but across the country. Many callers reported experiences of bullying at school and on social media, with a significant number of them having ties to Owasso High School.

Experts point out that bullying is a pervasive issue in schools, particularly for students who identify as nonbinary or transgender. The hostile environment can be exacerbated by anti-trans legislation, such as the laws passed in Oklahoma that restrict gender-affirming medical care and prevent the use of nonbinary gender markers on birth certificates. Governor Kevin Stitt has also signed bills targeting transgender athletes and restroom access for transgender children, further marginalizing the trans community.

In response to the tragedy, Owasso Public Schools reaffirmed their commitment to student safety and inclusivity. The district highlighted the efforts of the student-led Equality Club, which promotes equality across all identities and backgrounds. However, the prevalence of anti-trans rhetoric in political discourse and social media has created a challenging environment for LGBTQ+ students in Oklahoma.

As the investigation into Benedict’s death continues, advocates are calling for greater support for LGBTQ+ youth and stronger protections against discrimination and bullying in schools. The heartbreaking loss of Nex Benedict serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for empathy, understanding, and acceptance in our communities.

This article was originally published by The Associated Press in 2024..

1. nonbinary Oklahoma teenager
2. renewed scrutiny on anti-trans policies.