Tragedy Strikes: U.S. Department of Education Investigates Oklahoma School District Following Teenager’s Death and Anti-Transgender Bullying Allegations
In a small town just outside of Tulsa, Oklahoma, the death of a teenager has sparked a nationwide investigation into the treatment of transgender and LGBTQ+ students in schools. The U.S. Department of Education is now looking into whether Owasso Public Schools appropriately responded to allegations of gender-based harassment following the death of Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old student who was reportedly bullied over their gender identity.
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), an LGBTQ advocacy group, filed a complaint with the Department of Education after Nex Benedict’s tragic death. HRC President Kelley Robinson emphasized the need for urgent action to ensure justice for Nex and to create a safe environment for all students in Oklahoma schools.
However, the school district officials in Owasso have disputed the claims made by HRC, stating that the complaint lacks merit and is not supported by the facts. The district has expressed its commitment to cooperate with federal officials during the investigation.
The circumstances surrounding Nex Benedict’s death have raised questions about the protection of transgender and LGBTQ+ children in Oklahoma schools. Nex died one day after an altercation in a school bathroom, and friends have reported that they were targeted because of their gender identity. The police are currently interviewing other students involved in the fight to determine if it was an act of gender-based violence.
Initial autopsy results have indicated that Nex did not die as a result of traumatic injuries, but the exact cause of death remains unknown. This tragic event has become a symbol for many across the United States, highlighting the severe consequences of anti-transgender rhetoric and laws that have been enacted in conservative states like Oklahoma.
In 2022, Oklahoma passed a law requiring students to use restrooms that align with the sex listed on their birth certificates, which has raised concerns among critics. Furthermore, there is a new proposal in the state legislature that could potentially ban discussions about gender identities and sexuality in schools. Superintendent Ryan Walters has referred to gender fluidity as “the most radical concept we’ve ever come across in K-12 education.”
The details surrounding Nex Benedict’s final hours shed light on the challenges faced by transgender and LGBTQ+ students. According to security camera footage, Nex was involved in an altercation with a group of girls who had been antagonizing them and their friends due to their appearance and behavior. Nex poured water on the girls in response, which led to a physical confrontation.
After being taken to the hospital by their grandmother, Nex was later released. However, the following day, Nex experienced difficulty breathing and tragically passed away. The school initially confirmed a student’s death without disclosing any details, but as news spread, the fight preceding the death became known, igniting a wave of online misinformation.
To address the growing skepticism, the police decided to release body and security camera footage. However, confusion and secrecy surrounding other details, such as the number of students under investigation, have continued to fuel doubts.
Former and current students of Owasso High School have come forward to share their own experiences of bullying and harassment based on their gender identities and sexualities. They expressed that administrators often failed to intervene appropriately and provide a safe environment for them. The stories shared by these students reflect the heartbreaking reality faced by many LGBTQ+ individuals in their pursuit of education.
While some residents of Owasso view this reckoning as an issue manufactured by out-of-state advocacy groups, others recognize the need for change and expressed their condolences at a candlelight vigil held in the town. School administrators have issued statements expressing their condolences and condemning bullying, but some students believe that more needs to be done to address this prominent issue.
Nex Benedict is remembered by friends as fun-spirited, funny, and kind-hearted. They were known for their love of nature and cats, with a pet named Zeus. The family is still learning about Nex’s gender identity, and they have asked for privacy to grieve and conduct their own investigation into the events leading up to the tragedy.
This devastating incident has brought attention to the growing number of anti-trans laws and policies that have made it confusing for LGBTQ+ students to navigate their rights at school. Megan Lambert, the legal director for the ACLU in Oklahoma, emphasized that these students retain the right to equal treatment before the law, regardless of any actions taken by the state legislature or board of education.
As the investigation unfolds and the nation grapples with the tragedy of Nex Benedict’s death, it is crucial that schools and communities come together to create safe and inclusive environments for all students. No child should have to endure bullying or harassment based on their gender identity or sexuality. It is a call to action for policymakers, educators, and individuals to work towards a future where every student feels accepted, supported, and protected.
