OWASSO, OKLA. (KTUL) — National and state leaders addressed after the Oklahoma Medical Examiner determined it was a suicide.
The White House released a statement where President Joe Biden said he and First Lady Jill Biden are heartbroken by the loss.
Biden said in a statement:
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.
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. 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 also said that any LGBTQI+ community member who feels overwhelmed or alone can text or call 988, the National Crisis Hotline, and dial 3 to talk to a counselor trained in supporting LGBTQI+ youth.
Oklahoma leaders also released a statement on the loss.
The Oklahoma House of Representatives released a joint statement on Thursday, the day after the Medical Examiner’s report came out.
The House said, “The tragic suicide of Nex Benedict is a harsh reminder of the power that words have. As public officials and policy makers, we have a sacred obligation to ensure that as we do the work of the people, we do so with respect and dignity. Every human life is precious and created in the image of God regardless of who they are or who they love. We call on all Oklahomans to join us in our commitment to being respectful and deliberate in our language.”
Lawmakers pointed to another resource LGBTQ+ youth can use, the .
Call (866) 488-7386 or text “START” to 678-678 to get help.
Oklahoma House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, also released a statement on Nex’s death.
Munson said her heart goes out to Nex’s family, and that Nex deserved to grow up and live a happy, fulfilling life.
She also said she believed “Nex Benedict’s death is a direct result of a society and government that consistently pushes back and restricts their identity and those of other LGBTQ+ individuals.”
