Title: Tragic Suicide of 16-Year-Old Sheds Light on LGBTQ+ Bullying in Oklahoma School

In a heartbreaking incident, Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old member of the 2SLGBTQ community, tragically died by suicide one day after engaging in a physical altercation with fellow students at Owasso High School in Oklahoma. The state's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed Nex's cause of death in an autopsy report released on Wednesday.

Nex, who identified as nonbinary and preferred they/them pronouns, was a vital part of the 2SLGBTQ community, which encompasses Two Spirit individuals, considered a third gender in Native and Indigenous cultures. Nex's mother, Sue Benedict, is a registered member of the Choctaw Nation.

Following Nex's untimely death, advocacy group Freedom Oklahoma issued a statement expressing deep concern about the ongoing attacks on transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. They pointed out that 2SLGBTQ+ students, like Nex, are particularly vulnerable, facing discrimination and prejudice in schools, compounded by the actions of extremist politicians.

The Benedict family has called for action and answers regarding the bullying Nex reportedly endured at school, echoing the devastating effects bullying and school violence can have on young lives. They hope for meaningful change and a resolution to prevent such preventable tragedies in the future.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to face poor mental health, bullying, and violence than their non-LGBTQ+ peers. The CDC emphasizes the importance of implementing supportive policies and practices in schools to ensure better health outcomes for LGBTQ+ students and reduce the risk of suicide and self-harm.

Prompted by concerns raised by the Human Rights Campaign, the Department of Education has initiated an investigation into Owasso Public Schools. The district has acknowledged the seriousness of bullying, stating that they have established policies and procedures to address such behavior.

While the Owasso Police Department suspected suicide as the cause of Nex's death during their initial investigation, they refrained from confirming these suspicions until the final results were presented by the Oklahoma Medical Examiners Office. With the release of the autopsy report, the police department has urged anyone in crisis or considering suicide to contact the Oklahoma Mental Health Lifeline at 988 for immediate support.

The Human Rights Campaign issued a statement condemning anti-LGBTQ+ violence and bullying following the release of the medical examiner's report. They expressed sympathy and support for Nex's family during this unimaginably difficult time.

It is crucial to prioritize the mental well-being and safety of all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This tragic incident serves as a harrowing reminder of the urgent need for schools and communities to address LGBTQ+ bullying and create inclusive environments where all students can thrive.