Nex Benedict : “Oklahoma students walk out in protest over LGBTQ+ rights”

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Students at Oklahoma High School Walk Out in Support of LGBTQ+ Community

Dozens of students at Owasso High School in Oklahoma recently staged a peaceful demonstration to show solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community following the tragic death of a non-binary teenager. The 16-year-old student, Nex Benedict, who identified as non-binary and used they/them pronouns, passed away after a physical altercation with classmates in a school bathroom, where they were reportedly targeted by bullies.

Community Outpouring

In response to Benedict’s death, at least 40 students from Owasso High School participated in a walkout to protest the pervasive culture of bullying within the school. The students expressed their desire to raise awareness and support for their LGBTQ+ peers, emphasizing the need for greater accountability for acts of bullying. Cassidy Brown, an Owasso graduate and organizer of the demonstration, highlighted the importance of showing love and support to those who feel marginalized.

Vigils and Support

Vigils in honor of Nex Benedict have been held across Oklahoma and beyond, with hundreds gathering at Redbud Festival Park in Owasso to pay their respects to the teenager. LGBTQ+ groups have organized many of these gatherings to protest against the frequent bullying faced by non-binary individuals. Parents and community members have also spoken out about the need to address the issue of bullying within the school system and ensure the safety of all students.

Impact of Bullying

Benedict’s mother, Sue Benedict, revealed in an interview that her child had been subjected to bullying due to their gender identity. The bullying reportedly intensified after Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt signed a bill restricting transgender public school students from using bathrooms that align with their gender identity. The tragic incident has sparked conversations about the importance of creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

Call for Change

As the community mourns the loss of Nex Benedict, there is a growing call for action to address the root causes of bullying and discrimination within schools. While police have determined that Benedict’s death was not a direct result of the altercation in the bathroom, the incident has shed light on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth in educational settings. Moving forward, there is a collective effort to promote acceptance, understanding, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity..