In a heartbreaking incident that has sent shockwaves through the LGBTQ+ community, Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old nonbinary student, fell victim to a brutal assault at Owasso High School in Oklahoma.
This article explores the circumstances surrounding Nex Benedict’s tragic death, shedding light on the events that transpired and the potential connection to transphobic rhetoric.
Nex Benedict Murder
According to reports from sources, three older girls were involved in the attack. A witness described the severity of the assault, stating, “I know at one point, one of the girls was pretty much repeatedly beating their head across the floor.” Shockingly, a teacher intervened, but Nex, unable to walk on their own, was not provided immediate medical attention.
The lack of prompt action by school staff raises questions about the effectiveness of in-school resource officers. As the assault occurred during school hours, the delay in responding until after school hours is concerning and raises concerns about student safety.
How Did Nex Benedict Die?
Nex Benedict (they/them) was a nonbinary child. They were beaten, viciously in a high school bathroom of Owasso High School. They died the next day in the hospital,” revealed a viral tweet that echoed the devastating nature of the incident.
The lack of immediate intervention from teachers or staff members, who failed to call authorities after Nex survived the initial attack, adds another layer of distress to this already heart-wrenching story.
Nex Benedict Murderer
In 2022, Raichik targeted an Owasso teacher supporting LGBTQ+ students, resulting in harassment and resignation. Fast forward to the present, and the consequences have taken a horrifying turn with the murder of Nex Benedict, who had been advocating for LGBTQ+ acceptance.
Reports indicate that Benedict was attacked in the girls’ restroom by three older female students, sustaining fatal injuries. Despite a teacher’s intervention, Owasso High School inexplicably refrained from calling an ambulance for Benedict, who tragically succumbed to their injuries the following day.
The motive for the killing remains unclear, but the atmosphere of intolerance against transgender and non-binary youth in Oklahoma schools is palpable.
School Policies and Responsibility
While details about the incident are still emerging, questions about the school’s policies and the role of in-school resource officers have arisen. The school district released a statement acknowledging the student’s death but provided limited information.
The incident also raises concerns about how schools address violence and protect students, especially those who identify as nonbinary.
The Role of Anti-Trans Rhetoric
The online community is attributing Nex Benedict’s tragic death to transphobic rhetoric, particularly pointing fingers at Ryan Walters, the Secretary of Public Instruction in Oklahoma. Walters, who oversees the state’s Department of Education, has been criticized for his anti-trans stance, as seen in a video where he labeled the trans movement as “an assault on truth.”
The Impact of Online Harassment
Chaya Raichik, known for her controversial @LibsOfTikTok account, is also facing scrutiny. Raichik, appointed to the State Department of Education’s Library Media Advisory Committee by Walters, has been accused of contributing to a culture of intolerance against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Her online activities have allegedly led to bomb threats against schools, including the Owasso School District.
Rising Concerns and Unanswered Questions
The tragic death of Nex Benedict has raised concerns about the safety of trans and nonbinary students in schools. Despite the severity of the incident, the media coverage has been limited, with many outlets misgendering and deadnaming Nex.
The lack of national attention prompts questions about society’s priorities and the need for justice for Nex and others facing similar situations.
Conclusion
As we mourn the loss of Nex Benedict, it is crucial to address the systemic issues that contributed to this tragedy. The role of anti-trans rhetoric, school policies, and the responsibility of educators in ensuring the safety of all students must be thoroughly examined.
Nex’s untimely death serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth and the urgent need for societal change.
