As a 16-year-old high school junior and the founder of Granby’s Got Pride, a community Pride organization in Granby, I am deeply saddened by the death of Nex Benedict. Benedict was a 16-year-old LGBTQ+ student who died after being beaten in a school restroom in Owasso, Oklahoma.
On a Wednesday night last month I stood before a crowd at the State Capitol during a vigil held in Nex’s honor. While it was heartening to see lawmakers, including the governor, in attendance, their presence must translate into action to protect 2SLGBTQIA+ students across our state.
As someone who has experienced discrimination and bullying because of my sexuality, Nex Benedict’s story feels personal to me. I understand the fear and isolation that Nex faced on a daily basis. I had to change schools to escape the relentless harassment and violence directed toward me simply because of who I am. No student should ever have to endure such hatred, especially within the supposed safe confines of their school.
It’s time for Connecticut lawmakers to recognize that their responsibility extends beyond mere gestures of sympathy. While attending a vigil is a commendable show of support, it’s what happens afterward that truly matters. We need substantive policy changes to ensure that what happened to Nex in Oklahoma doesn’t happen again here in Connecticut or anywhere in the United States.
First, we must prioritize the safety and well-being of LGBTQIA+ students in our schools. This means implementing comprehensive anti-bullying programs that specifically address LGBTQ-related harassment and discrimination. Too often, these issues are swept under the rug or dismissed as insignificant, leaving vulnerable students feeling abandoned and unprotected.
Furthermore, our education system must reflect the diversity of our society by incorporating LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum and resources. LGBTQIA+ history, literature, and contributions to society should be celebrated and integrated into our classrooms. By fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding, we can create a more inclusive educational experience for all students.
In addition to curriculum changes, we must invest in mental health resources tailored to the unique needs of LGBTQIA+ youth. Many LGBTQIA+ students face higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation due to the discrimination and rejection they experience. By providing access to affirming mental health services, we can offer vital support to those who need it most.
Lastly, we must hold accountable those who perpetuate discrimination and violence against LGBTQIA+ individuals. Hate crimes legislation must be strengthened to ensure that perpetrators face appropriate consequences for their actions. We cannot allow bigotry and intolerance to go unchecked in our communities.
Nex Benedict’s death serves as a sobering reminder of the urgent need for change. Let us honor their memory by taking decisive action to protect and uplift 2SLGBTQIA+ youth across Connecticut.
Our lawmakers have a moral obligation to ensure that every student, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels safe, supported, and valued in their schools. Anything less would be a disservice to Nex and all those who have suffered at the hands of hatred and bigotry.
James Crocker, 16, is an LGBTQ+ rights activist and Founder/Executive Director of Granby’s Got Pride.