President Joe Biden issued a statement on the death of transgender Oklahoma teen Nex Benedict, whose Feb. 8 death, which occurred a day after a fight at Owasso High School, was ruled a suicide Wednesday.
“Jill and I are heartbroken by the recent loss of Nex Benedict,” Biden said in a statement Thursday. “Every young person deserves to have the fundamental right and freedom to be who they are, and feel safe and supported at school and in their communities. Nex Benedict, a kid who just wanted to be accepted, should still be here with us today.”
In memory of Nex, Biden said, “we must all recommit to our work to end discrimination and address the suicide crisis impacting too many nonbinary and transgender children.”
“Bullying is hurtful and cruel, and no one should face the bullying that Nex did,” Biden said. “Parents and schools must take reports of bullying seriously. My prayers are with Nex’s family, friends, and all who loved them — and to all LGBTQI+ Americans for whom this tragedy feels so personal, know this: I will always have your back.”
The president closed his message by telling LGBTQ youth that they can call or text 988, the National Crisis Hotline, and dial the number “3” to talk to a counselor who has been specifically trained to support LGBTQ youth.
Nex, who was transgender and used he and they pronouns, according to friends and family, was involved in a fight at Owasso High School’s West Campus on Feb. 7. Nex told police three students “jumped” him after he threw water on them because they were bullying him and his friend for the way they dressed. Sue Benedict, Nex’s mother, told the Independent that Nex had previously told her he was bullied due to his gender identity.
On Feb. 8, Sue Benedict called 911 and told the operator that Nex’s hands were posturing, which refers to an involuntary movement that can indicate abnormal brain activity, according to audio of the 911 call that the Owasso Police Department…
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