‘Nonbinary and Transgender People Are Some of the Bravest Americans I Know’
President Biden remembers Oklahoma teen Nex Benedict, who died after being bullied
President Biden honored and remembered Nex Benedict, the nonbinary Oklahoma teen who died a day after being beaten by three girls at Owasso High School in Owasso, Okla.
Biden highlighted the struggle which Benedict and other transgender and nonbinary Americans face.
Benedict, 16, died the day after an altercation at their high school on February 7.
Benedict had experienced bullying from students due to their gender identity for more than a year before their death. Benedict told police they were beaten by three girls in the girls' restroom at Owasso High School, and Benedict died the following day.
A medical examiner’s summary report was released Wednesday, citing suicide as Benedict’s cause of death, including a finding of probable cause from a “combined toxicity” from an overdose.
Biden released a statement about Benedict’s death Thursday.
“Jill and I are heartbroken by the recent loss of Nex Benedict. 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,” Biden said. “Nonbinary and transgender people are some of the bravest Americans I know. But nobody should have to be brave just to be themselves. In memory of Nex, 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. Parents and schools must take reports of bullying seriously,” the president added. “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.”
Biden directed at-risk LGBTQI+ Americans to 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 LGBTQI+ youth.
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