Tulsa Community Rallies for Change and Healing After Nex Benedict's Death

TULSA, Okla. — The untimely death of Nex Benedict, a student from Owasso High School, has sparked a profound dialogue within Tulsa Public Schools and the broader community about the critical issues of bullying and student safety.

“Anti-bullying postcard: ‘Stop Bullying Everywhere’” by Ken Whytock is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

The tragic event has left many unanswered questions, with authorities withholding the cause of death pending further investigation. However, Nex’s family, through their law firm, has emphasized their commitment to anti-bullying activism, aspiring to create an environment where no child suffers from bullying at school.

At a recent board meeting, the sentiment for change was palpable. Curtis West, affectionately known as ‘Coach West’ during his 27-year tenure at Tulsa Public Schools, shared his insights. “You have to build a relationship. That’s how you do it. My class each semester was this long. ‘Cause the kids felt safe,” he said, highlighting the importance of fostering a secure environment for students.

Board member John Croisant, who attended a vigil in honor of Benedict, expressed gratitude to the community, stating, “I just want to say ‘thank you’ to so many Tulsans who came out and showed that love is a lot more important than hate.”

The issue of bullying is not isolated to Tulsa; it’s a nationwide concern. Data from the National Center for Education Statistics reveals that over 30% of kids aged 12 to 18 have been subjected to various forms of bullying. In response, Stacey Wooley, the school board president, voiced her determination: “Every student in Tulsa will feel welcomed if I have anything to do with that, and if they don’t, I would like to hear from them.”

Board member E’lena Ashley echoed Wooley’s sentiments, reminding us that all children are “children of God” and deserve to be cherished and safeguarded.

The community’s response to Nex’s death has been overwhelming, with public officials and citizens alike calling for transparency and accountability. The White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt have all made statements acknowledging the tragedy and the need for support and safety for LGBTQ+ youth.

The Owasso Police Department’s investigation into the incident preceding Nex’s death has revealed that the altercation did not result in trauma-related fatality. The official cause of death remains undetermined until the completion of toxicology and other tests.

As community awaits final report, focus shifts to student safety, especially marginalized groups. ACLU, GLAAD criticize Oklahoma leadership for hostile LGBTQ+ environment. Nex Benedict’s family demands end to threats at Owasso Public Schools, seeks change against bullying.

The loss of Nex Benedict has become a catalyst for reflection and action in Tulsa and beyond. As the community mourns, it also looks forward with a resolve to ensure that schools are sanctuaries of learning and growth, free from the scourge of bullying and discrimination.