Hundreds Gather to Honor Nex Benedict, LGBTQ+ Teen Who Tragically Lost Their Life After School Altercation
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the tragic death of Nex Benedict, a gender-expansive teenager, has ignited a powerful response from communities across the nation. The young high school sophomore’s life was cut short after a fight in a school bathroom at Owasso High School on February 7. As news of Nex’s death spread, the LGBTQ+ community and their allies have come together in unity, demanding justice and an end to the bullying and discrimination faced by individuals based on their gender identity.
The circumstances surrounding the fight that led to Nex’s untimely demise remain unclear. However, family and friends have spoken out about the routine bullying Nex experienced due to their gender identity. While medical examiners continue their investigation into the cause of death, authorities have ruled out trauma as the cause. The loss of Nex has left a void in the lives of those who knew and loved them, prompting a call for change and protection for LGBTQ+ youth.
On February 15, the family held a funeral service to bid Nex farewell. However, the impact of their life and the tragedy that befell them reached far beyond their immediate circle. On Saturday, hundreds of people gathered at the Point A Gallery in Oklahoma City, a haven for the LGBTQ+ community, to pay tribute to Nex and show their support for young people facing similar challenges. More than 500 individuals filled the venue, while another 100 stood outside, watching the vigil via livestream on their phones.
The atmosphere was one of somber reflection and unity. Attendees like Rebecca Bevan expressed their sorrow over Nex’s passing and emphasized the importance of supporting and accepting young people for who they are. Bevan shared her personal experience as a lesbian who had to hide her true self, highlighting the significance of creating an open and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Kathleen Hanlon, moved by Nex’s story, also attended the candlelight service, unable to shake the sadness that washed over her. The outpouring of support for Nex at the vigil demonstrated the impact their life had on people who had never even met them. It showcased the collective determination to stand up against bullying, violence, and discriminatory legislation targeting the LGBTQ+ community.
The vigil, organized by Rural Oklahoma Pride and Point A Gallery, served as a memorial service and a rally. The speakers paid their respects to Nex, offered prayers, and urged attendees to join them in pushing back against anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and legislation. Organizations advocating for LGBTQ+ rights condemned the bullying that Nex faced and criticized officials for their handling of the case. They demanded better protection for students who experience bullying due to their gender or sexual identity.
Nicole Poindexter, from the Human Rights Campaign, called for the removal of state Schools Superintendent Ryan Walters and requested investigations into the allegations of anti-LGBTQ+ bullying and the altercation that preceded Nex’s death. The LGBTQ+ community in Oklahoma feels the weight of discrimination and hostility, which requires urgent change. As Nicole McAfee, executive director of Freedom Oklahoma, pointed out, this tragedy is not a wake-up call but rather an amplification of their long-standing cries for help.
Library book bans, mandatory outing of students, and restricting bathroom access are all tactics aimed at isolating and causing despair within the LGBTQ+ community. McAfee emphasized the importance of events like the prayer vigil in fostering hope and urged attendees to keep Nex’s story alive in the media as part of the fight for justice.
Amidst the tributes and calls for change, Kris Williams addressed the crowd with a powerful message. Williams implored all queer adults to raise their candles high, assuring young LGBTQ+ individuals that they are not alone. These adults have navigated their own teenage years and emerged stronger on the other side. Their presence serves as a reminder that support, love, and acceptance are available.
The impact of Nex’s story has reverberated beyond Oklahoma’s borders. Lance Preston, founder and executive director of Rainbow Youth Project USA, traveled from Indianapolis to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community in Oklahoma. Preston’s organization has witnessed a surge in crisis calls from young people following Nex’s death, with a significant number mentioning Nex’s name. The large crowd gathered at the vigil provided solace to these young individuals, assuring them that they have allies in their corner.
As the community mourns the loss of Nex Benedict, it also rallies for change and justice. The tragedy has sparked a renewed determination to protect LGBTQ+ youth, combat discrimination, and create a society where everyone can be their authentic selves without fear or shame. Nex’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who gathered to honor them and fight for a better future.
