Black Pride Network Mourns Nex Benedict, Calls for Unity Amid Global Anti-Trans Attacks
The Black Pride Network (BPN) mourns Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old indigenous non-binary student who tragically died on Feb. 8 after reportedly being beaten by classmates in Owasso, Oklahoma. Nex faced months of bullying, exacerbated by a new law banning trans students from using gender identity-aligned restrooms.
This heartbreaking incident underscores the urgent need for increased awareness, education, and support to combat discrimination and violence against individuals based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Our collective responsibility is to foster a culture of acceptance, inclusion, and empathy.
BPN urges swift and thorough investigations into Nex's death by law enforcement and school authorities. We call on governments to address threats and legislative attacks against LGBTQIA+ people, especially youth. Our education system should be safe and inclusive for all.
In solidarity, BPN encourages Pride organizations to support local trans, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming communities. Actions include connecting with trans-led organizations, amplifying trans activists' voices, and advocating for LGBTQIA+ inclusive policies.
Spreading queer joy through Pride events is a form of resistance. BPN calls on members and allies nationwide to stand in solidarity and provide supportive spaces for all. BIPOC Pride organizers can take action by supporting trans-led organizations, amplifying trans voices, and promoting inclusive leadership. Community education on advocating for LGBTQIA+ inclusive policies is crucial.
BIPOC Pride organizers and allies can:
Support local trans-led organizations.
Amplify the voices of trans activists.
Encourage full participation of transgender, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming leaders, especially youth.
Educate community members on advocating for LGBTQIA+ inclusive policy change with government officials.
Resources:
Trans Advocacy Coalition of Oklahoma — https://www.transadvocacyok.com
Oklahomans for Equality — https://okeq.org
Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund — https://transgenderlegal.org
National Center for Trans Equality — https://transequality.org
Trans Lifeline — https://translifeline.org
Trevor Project — Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Young People
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About the Black Pride Network (BPN):
Black Pride Network fosters a culture of pride, resilience, and equality by empowering, uniting, and celebrating the diverse fabric of the Black, Brown, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex (LGBTQIA+) Pride community. To achieve social justice, we aim to build a community that supports BIPOC voices, encourages inclusivity, and amplifies their voices. We want to break down barriers, motivate positive change, and create a world where everyone may proudly accept their identity via activism, education, and community engagement. For the BIPOC community worldwide, the Black Pride Network symbolizes strength, solidarity, and empowerment; we will continue to work to unite, educate, and engage the LGBTQIA+ community and our allies.
