In a heartfelt statement, President Joe Biden expressed his sorrow over the tragic death of transgender Oklahoma teen Nex Benedict, who took their own life on February 8th, a day after a fight at Owasso High School. The death was ruled as a suicide by the authorities on Wednesday.

President Biden, along with First Lady Jill Biden, conveyed their condolences to Nex's family and emphasized the importance of ensuring that every young person has the freedom to be themselves and feel safe in their schools and communities. The President highlighted that Nex, a teenager who simply yearned for acceptance, should still be alive today.

To honor Nex Benedict's memory, President Biden renewed his commitment to eradicating discrimination and addressing the alarming suicide crisis affecting nonbinary and transgender children. He condemned bullying as cruel and emphasized that no one should have to endure what Nex went through. The President urged parents and schools to take reports of bullying seriously.

President Biden offered his prayers to Nex's family, friends, and all who loved them. He also conveyed his support to the LGBTQI+ community, assuring them that he will always have their back. To provide immediate assistance, he shared the National Crisis Hotline number, 988, which LGBTQ youth can call or text. By dialing "3", they will be connected with a counselor specifically trained to support them.

Nex Benedict, who identified as transgender and used he and they pronouns, had been involved in a physical altercation at Owasso High School's West Campus on February 7th. Nex had reported that the fight ensued after they threw water on three students who had been bullying them and their friend due to their choice of clothing. Nex's mother, Sue Benedict, revealed that their child had previously experienced bullying related to their gender identity.

On February 8th, Sue Benedict made a distress call to 911, expressing concern about Nex's condition. Describing Nex's symptoms, she mentioned involuntary movements and shallow breathing, fearing possible brain injury from the school fight. Nex was rushed to St. Francis Children's Hospital but tragically, they were pronounced dead.

The Oklahoma medical examiner's office released a preliminary report attributing Nex's death to suicide caused by a combination of two drugs, one available over the counter and the other by prescription. The full report will be disclosed on March 27th.

The investigation into Nex's death by the Owasso Police Department is still ongoing. Lt. Nick Boatman, a spokesperson for the department, stated that the findings will be presented to the Tulsa County District Attorney's Office, who will decide whether charges can be filed against the other students involved in the fight.

Research indicates that LGBTQ youth face a disproportionate risk of suicide, and the Trevor Project, an organization focused on LGBTQ youth suicide prevention, conducted a survey of approximately 28,000 LGBTQ young people. The survey revealed that over 40% of respondents aged 13 to 24 seriously considered suicide in the previous year, with even higher rates among trans and nonbinary individuals. The survey findings indicated that 48% of LGBTQ youth in Oklahoma had seriously considered suicide, with 16% reporting suicide attempts in the past year.

In response to previous complaints of discrimination from students, the Department of Education has initiated a federal investigation into Owasso Public Schools. The investigation was prompted by a complaint filed by the Human Rights Campaign, the largest LGBTQ rights group in the United States.

If you or someone you know is an LGBTQ young person in crisis or in need of a safe and judgment-free place to talk, the TrevorLifeline is available at 1-866-488-7386. The Rainbow Youth Project can also be contacted at 1-317-643-4888.

As the nation mourns the loss of Nex Benedict, calls for comprehensive efforts to combat discrimination and support LGBTQ youth are echoing across the country. President Biden's message serves as a reminder of the urgent need to create a safe and inclusive environment for all young individuals.