OWASSO, Okla. — The nation's largest LGBTQ+ Civil Rights organization, Human Rights Campaign, is in Owasso to help as many organizations and students as possible cope with Nex Benedict's death and promote change.
Laurel Powell lives in Washington, D.C., but is here for Nex as long as it takes, "We're here to demand justice for Nex. Their story has touched the hearts of other people around the country."
Benedict died in early February a day after being involved in a fight at school. The investigation into their death is ongoing. Here is the latest:
As programs communications director for the Human Rights Campaign, Powell said many people can relate to Nex's story.
Powell said parents are looking at Owasso Public Schools to see what they do next.
"There's a culture that has been created that is hostile to LGBTQ+ students," Powell said.
It's why Powell and her team are in town. Powell told 2 News she'll be in Owasso to support Oklahoma organizations calling for accountability and transparency and helping stop "legislative attacks at the state level."
She said Nex's story is relatable to people nationwide, especially those who identify as LGBTQ+.
Vigils took place across the country in response to their death, including several in Green Country, hear why people came out to remember Nex.
Powell said the president of the Human Rights Campaign wrote a letter to the Owasso Public Schools superintendent saying, "What happened to Nex was a result of bullying, and it's 'becoming a systemic problem.'"
The letter stated the Owasso School District needs to make immediate changes to ensure students aren't victimized based on their LGBTQ+ identity and to be sure schools are safe and affirming to all students. They also recommended the school district join their bullying prevention program.
Powell said changes start with adults.
"The obligation to change this does not rest with these students. It rests with people like Superintendent Walters, who are in charge of Oklahoma schools. It lies with the administrators of the schools and the principals."
Powell said they have not received a response from the Owasso school district regarding their letter to the superintendent.
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