Dozens of Students Walk Out in Support of LGBTQ+ Community After Death of Non-Binary Teen in Oklahoma High School
In a powerful display of solidarity and support, dozens of students from Owasso High School in Oklahoma walked out on Monday to protest against the prevalent culture of bullying and show their unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community. The demonstration comes in the wake of a tragic incident that resulted in the death of Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old non-binary student who tragically lost their life following a physical altercation in a school bathroom. This incident has shed light on the urgent need for greater accountability and action against bullying within schools.
Nex Benedict, who identified as non-binary and used they/them pronouns, passed away on February 8th after an altercation with classmates in the bathroom of Owasso High School. Body camera footage released by the police revealed Benedict’s account of the incident, where they were targeted by three girls who subjected them to bullying along with their friends. This heartbreaking incident has sparked outrage among students and the wider community, who are demanding justice and an end to the pervasive culture of bullying.
More than 40 students from Owasso High School participated in the peaceful walkout, raising their voices against the rampant bullying that often goes unchecked. As reported by NBC, Cassidy Brown, an Owasso graduate and organizer of the demonstration, expressed the importance of spreading awareness and showing support for marginalized individuals. “I just want to get the word out and show these kids that we’re here,” Brown stated. “There is a community here in this city that does exist, and we see them, and they are loved.”
The tragic loss of Nex Benedict has not only sparked demonstrations but has also led to the organization of vigils across Oklahoma and the country. Over the weekend, hundreds gathered at Redbud Festival Park in Owasso to honor Benedict’s memory. LGBTQ+ groups have played a significant role in organizing these gatherings, using them as an opportunity to protest against the frequent bullying faced by non-binary teens. The outpouring of support and solidarity from the wider community demonstrates the urgent need for change and a commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
Parents, too, have voiced their concerns and shared their own experiences with bullying. Susie Eubank, an Owasso parent, expressed her distress over the situation, stating, “Our children are scared to death and go to school every day, and something has to stop. My child has had direct threats. Direct derogatory names.” Eubank’s heartfelt plea reflects the fears and anxieties that many parents face when sending their children to school.
In an interview with The Independent, Sue Benedict, the mother of Nex Benedict, revealed that her child had been a victim of bullying due to their gender identity. The bullying began shortly after Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt signed a bill that restricts transgender public school students from using bathrooms that align with their gender identity. This legislation has further exacerbated the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ students, leaving them vulnerable to discrimination and harassment.
While the investigation into Nex Benedict’s death is still ongoing, preliminary results from the autopsy suggest that their passing was not a direct result of injuries sustained during the bathroom altercation. No arrests have been made thus far in connection with Benedict’s tragic death. However, this incident has shed light on the urgent need for schools and communities to address the pervasive issue of bullying and create a safe environment where all students can thrive.
As the nation mourns the loss of Nex Benedict, it is essential that we come together to support and uplift marginalized communities. The tragic events in Owasso High School serve as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked bullying. It is imperative that we take action to ensure that no student feels unsafe or unwelcome due to their gender identity or sexual orientation. By standing in solidarity, raising awareness, and demanding change, we can strive towards a future where every student feels seen, loved, and protected.
