In the heart of Tulsa County, the quiet community of Owasso, Oklahoma, faces turmoil following the death of Nex (Dagny) Benedict, a 16-year-old non-binary sophomore at Owasso High School. The incident unfolded on February 7th, 2024, when a physical altercation in the school restroom led to tragic consequences. Despite the fight occurring within the school’s confines, officials claimed unawareness until the student was hospitalized and later pronounced dead. The Owasso Police Department is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding Benedict’s untimely demise.
The Community’s Response
The local and wider community are in an uproar, not only because of the loss of a young life but also due to the handling of the situation by school authorities and the subsequent coverage by media outlets. Misgendering by local news and the lack of immediate medical intervention have sparked outrage. Advocates for LGBTQ+ rights are particularly concerned about the environment in the Owasso school district, previously targeted by anti-LGBTQ+ extremist groups. This incident has reignited discussions on the safety and acceptance of LGBTQ+ students in educational institutions.
A Pattern of Targeting
The backdrop of this tragedy includes the involvement of far-right figures in local education politics, including Chaya Raichik of Libs of TikTok, known for targeting LGBTQ+ communities. Raichik’s appointment to a committee reviewing school library content by State Superintendent Ryan Walters has been controversial, highlighting the political climate surrounding LGBTQ+ issues in Oklahoma. Advocates argue that such a climate fosters an environment where violence against LGBTQ+ youth is not taken seriously enough.