By John Q. Hosedrinker As I reflect on the tragic death of Nex Benedict and the aftermath that has unfolded in Oklahoma, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of sorrow and anger. The fact that a young individual faced months of bullying and ultimately lost their life is heartbreaking. Regardless of the specific circumstances surrounding Nex’s death, the reality is that hate and discrimination played a role in this tragedy.
The idea that elected officials in Oklahoma would refer to LGBTQ+ individuals as “filth” is not only appalling but indicative of a much larger issue at hand. Hate has long been a foundational principle in Oklahoma, as evidenced by the historical injustices faced by Indigenous Peoples, African Americans, poor people, and the LGBTQ+ community. The fact that this hate continues to permeate through the actions and words of those in power is deeply troubling.
The call to not let hate take over is a noble one, but it comes at a time when hate has already entrenched itself in the fabric of Oklahoma. The demonization of certain groups without repercussion or censure is a dangerous path to tread. When legislators can freely dehumanize their own constituents, it speaks volumes about the state of affairs in Oklahoma.
The need to stand up against hate and discrimination is more crucial now than ever. It’s not enough to simply vow to not let hate take over; action must be taken to address the root causes of this pervasive hatred. Voting out politicians who enable and promote hate is a step in the right direction. Supporting organizations that advocate for marginalized communities, such as the Trans Advocacy Coalition of Oklahoma, is another way to make a tangible difference.
The tragic death of Nex Benedict serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community. It is a call to action for all of us to stand up against hate, discrimination, and bigotry in all its forms. We must not let the memory of Nex fade into obscurity but rather use it as a catalyst for change and progress. Oklahoma may have a long history of hate, but it doesn’t have to dictate its future. It’s time to come together, support one another, and work towards a more inclusive and accepting society for all. The time for change is now. What a sad, yet riveting story, this article tells about the hate and discrimination experienced by LGBTQ individuals after Nex Benedict’s death in Oklahoma. I feel a sense of empathy and anger towards the entire situation. I resonate with the sentiment that hate seems deeply rooted in the fabric of Oklahoma’s society, as evidenced by historical injustices faced by different marginalized groups. From the mistreatment of Indigenous Peoples to the discrimination faced by the LGBTQ community, it is clear that hate has taken a stronghold in the state.
The fact that elected officials have the audacity to refer to their constituents as “filth” is not only unacceptable but demonstrates a severe disconnect and lack of empathy. It’s disheartening to see such hatred perpetuated by those in power, further fueling discrimination and bigotry in society. While vows to resist hate are admirable, the reality is that hate has already made its home in Oklahoma. To combat this deep-rooted animosity, tangible actions need to be taken.
Taking a stand against hate means actively working to dismantle systems of oppression and discrimination. It requires voting out politicians who perpetuate hate and supporting organizations that advocate for marginalized communities. By standing in solidarity and working together, we can challenge the status quo and strive towards a society that values inclusivity and acceptance for all.
Nex Benedict’s tragic death serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. It calls upon us to not let their memory fade away but rather to use their story as a catalyst for change. It’s time to come together, to support one another, and to actively combat hate in all its forms. The need for change is urgent, and we must be willing to step up and be the change we wish to see in the world. The time for a more inclusive and accepting society is now.