President Joe Biden expressed sadness Thursday at the death of 16-year-old nonbinary student Nex Benedict, saying more needs to be done to end discrimination and the suicide crisis among nonbinary and transgender youngsters.
In a statement, Biden said he and first lady Jill Biden were “heartbroken by the recent loss of Nex Benedict,” and that “every young person deserves the fundamental right and freedom to be themselves.”
“Nonbinary and transgender people are some of the bravest Americans I know,” Vice President Joe Biden remarked. “But no one should have to be bold simply to be themselves. In memory of Nex, we must all recommit to our efforts to stop discrimination and solve the suicide issue that affects far too many nonbinary and transgender youth.”
The Oklahoma State Medical Examiner’s Office announced Wednesday that Nex’s death was a suicide by overdose.
Nex died on February 8, one day after a confrontation with three girls who were suspected of bullying the teenager.
The kid was treated at a local hospital for minor injuries sustained in the struggle, but they were taken back to the hospital the next day and died. The Owasso, Oklahoma, Police Department decided that Nex’s injuries from the struggle were not the cause of death.
Nex’s death drew global attention and provoked significant outrage among others who believed they were the victim of anti-LGBTQ prejudice.
The federal government is investigating Owasso Public Schools for probable prejudice in connection with Nex’s death.