Nationwide Vigils Held for Nonbinary Teen Who died After High School Fight

Vigils were held across the country over the weekend to mourn the tragic death of Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old nonbinary student from Oklahoma who passed away following a confrontation at Owasso High School. The incident, which took place in a school bathroom, has sparked outrage and calls for justice amidst allegations of bullying targeted at Benedict.

Benedict, who used they/them pronouns, was involved in a dispute on February 7 with three girls who were reportedly harassing Benedict and their friends. The altercation escalated when the girls attacked Benedict after water was poured on them, as described by the teen in a video released by the police.

Following the altercation, Benedict’s mother contacted emergency services the next day, reporting shallow breathing, rolled-back eyes, and curled hands. Despite initial suspicions of foul play, the preliminary autopsy results indicated that Benedict’s death was not directly related to the injuries sustained during the fight.

As news of Benedict’s passing spread, vigils were organised in various cities such as Boston, Minneapolis, and Huntington Beach, California, to honour the memory of the young nonbinary individual. Additional vigils are planned in states including Washington, New Jersey, New York, and Texas.

During the vigil in Huntington Beach, Kanan Durham, the executive director of Pride at the Pier, expressed the need to remember Benedict’s legacy beyond the tragic event. Durham highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity.

Sanj Cooper, the president of TahlEquality, emphasised the traumatic nature of Benedict’s death during a vigil in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Cooper underscored the prevalence of mental health issues within the LGBTQ+ community and the urgent need for support and advocacy.

Cooper added, “If anything, it doesn’t oppress or keep us from our voice from being heard. If anything it makes it louder.”

The tragic incident has reignited conversations around LGBTQ+ rights and the need for inclusive environments in schools and communities. The outpouring of support at the vigils reflects a growing awareness of the challenges faced by nonbinary individuals and the importance of standing up against discrimination and violence.

At the vigil in McAlester, Oklahoma, organised by the McAlester Rainbow Connection, community members gathered to pay their respects to Benedict and show solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. The event served as a reminder of the need for unity and support in the face of tragedy.

Matt Blancett, a member of the Rainbow Connection, highlighted the importance of community gatherings in the wake of tragedies like Benedict’s passing. Blancett emphasised the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community and the determination to advocate for equality and justice.

As investigations into the circumstances surrounding Benedict’s death continue, the community remains united in seeking answers and justice for the young nonbinary individual. The vigils serve as a powerful reminder of the impact of discrimination and the need for greater awareness and support for LGBTQ+ individuals.