Oklahoma Teen Nex Benedict's Death Sparks Outrage and Calls for Action Against Transphobia

Nex Benedict, a gender-expansive teen, died under unclear circumstances in Oklahoma, igniting widespread calls to combat transphobia and hate crimes.

Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old gender-expansive teen, died after a physical altercation in their high school bathroom, leading to national attention and mourning.
Oklahoma police have ruled out 'trauma' as the cause of death, with the investigation ongoing and the cause of death still unclear.
The incident has highlighted the heightened and hostile climate against the LGBTQ+ community, especially trans and nonbinary individuals, in the United States.
Nex's death has prompted vigils and calls to action against transphobia, fascism, and the legislative attacks on queer and trans people.
The case underscores the challenges faced by queer and trans children, who are often vilified and targeted in a country where their safety and identities are under siege.