In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the Owasso High School community is grappling with the loss of Nex Benedict, a gender non-conforming student, following a harrowing incident. Nex, revered by friends as Two Spirit and known for using he/they pronouns, succumbed to injuries from an alleged school bathroom altercation. Amidst this sorrow, the school’s response—or lack thereof—has ignited widespread critique, particularly concerning its immediate handling of the incident.
Unwelcome Provocation
As the town of Owasso, Oklahoma, mourns, the Westboro Baptist Church, infamous for its anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, has announced intentions to picket the school. This group, known for its disruptive protests, notably targets events to propagate its message of hate. Their planned presence has not only stoked fears of unrest but has also rallied the Owasso Public Schools administration and local law enforcement in a united front to safeguard students and honor Nex’s memory.
Community Response and Legacy
The tragedy of Nex’s passing and the subsequent protest plans have catalyzed a significant outpouring of support for LGBTQ+ rights and student safety. Vigils and memorials, including a significant gathering at the Stonewall Inn in New York, underscore the communal grief and solidarity. Furthermore, the incident has prompted discussions at the highest levels of government, with Vice President Kamala Harris extending condolences and affirming support for the LGBTQ+ community.