President Biden spoke out Thursday about the suicide of non-binary teen Nex Benedict, accusing Oklahoma school officials of “exploiting” the tragedy from the White House.
Biden said he and first lady Jill were “heartbroken” by Benedict’s tragic death, saying he was “heartbroken” after Benedict, 16, died by suicide last month. He vowed to support his children “at all times.”
Biden: “Nex Benedict, a kid who just wanted to be recognized, should be with us today.” said in a statement.
The second-year student got into an argument with three female students in the high school bathroom and died the next day after being taken to the hospital.
The state’s chief medical examiner ruled Wednesday that Benedict took his own life due to a drug overdose.
Family members said Benedict, who used the pronouns they/them, was being bullied at school and the fight started when he threw water at three girls.
“They were bullying me and my friends and I got fed up so I poured water on them and all three of them came after me,” Benedict said in an email to relatives. Acquired by local station Fox 23 last month.
In the aftermath of the fight, Benedict told officers the girls had been bullying him and his friends because of the way they dressed and the way they laughed, according to body camera footage released by police.
Benedict’s mother previously claimed that To the Independent Their loved ones were bullied at school because of their gender identity.
Students protested over allegations of bullying against Benedict, and the U.S. Department of Education launched an investigation into Owasso Public Schools over its handling of sexual harassment allegations.
“In memory of Nex, we must all rededicate our efforts to end discrimination and address the suicide crisis that affects too many nonbinary and transgender children,” Biden said. said. “Bullying is hurtful and cruel, and no one should have to face the bullying Nex did.
“Parents and schools must take reports of bullying seriously. My prayers are with Nex’s family, friends, and everyone who loved them. I know this tragedy is deeply personal. To all LGBTQI+ Americans who feel included, please know this: I will always have your back.”
But hours later, Oklahoma Public Schools Superintendent Ryan Walters condemned Biden’s comments.
“Stop playing politics. @JoeBiden and @KamalaHarris have chosen to accept the lies of the most extreme group in their party.”Walters he tweeted. “Their party has found a new low in exploiting the death of a child.”
Mr. Walter also pushed back against LBGT advocates who have harshly criticized the state Department of Education’s policies and statements from school leaders since Mr. Benedict’s death. Before the cause of death was confirmed, supporters also speculated whether the death was a direct result of the fighting.
“The loss of our students in Owasso is a tragedy for our families, our community, and our state. LGBTQ groups pushing false narratives are one of the greatest threats to our democracy, and now more than ever I am , we remain determined never to back down from a woke mob,” Walters said in a statement Wednesday. According to reports.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988 or visit the following link: SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
