As an Oklahoma student, I am deeply affected by the recent tragic death of a fellow student, Nex, who was a trans individual. The news of Nex’s passing due to bullying is not just heartbreaking but also a stark reminder of the harsh reality that many LGBTQ+ students face every day. Bullying and discrimination should never be tolerated, especially within the education system, where students should feel safe and supported.
The fact that 40 students walked out in protest of the bullying policies at the high school is a powerful statement. It signifies that the younger generation is not afraid to stand up for what is right and demand change.… Continue reading
As I sit down to write about the recent walkout by Oklahoma students in protest of bullying policies following the tragic death of a transgender student, Nex, my heart aches. It is disheartening to see young lives cut short due to relentless bullying and the lack of effective policies to address it. The fact that schools, which should be safe havens for students, often turn a blind eye to bullying or even worse, support it, is absolutely mind-boggling.
The story shared by a parent about their son’s experience of being bullied at school brought tears to my eyes. The pain of witnessing a loved one go through such torment, and the feeling of helplessness in not being able to protect them, is something no parent should have to endure.… Continue reading
As I read the appalling statement made by the Oklahoma lawmaker, Tom Woods, calling LGBTQ people ‘filth’ in the wake of the tragic beating death of a bullied nonbinary teen, I am overcome with a mix of emotions – anger, disbelief, and deep sorrow. How can someone in a position of power and influence spew such hateful rhetoric, especially following a senseless and heart-wrenching tragedy? The insensitivity and lack of empathy displayed by Woods are not only unacceptable but also unworthy of someone entrusted to represent the people.
The fact that Woods justified his derogatory remarks by claiming that Oklahoma is a “Christian state” and citing religious beliefs as a basis for his prejudice is deeply concerning.… Continue reading
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.… Continue reading
The recent verdict in the case of a Black transgender woman’s killing being the first federal hate crime trial over gender identity raises a lot of thoughts and emotions within me. It highlights the harsh reality that violence against trans individuals, especially transwomen of color, is a prevalent issue that needs urgent attention. The fact that this trial is groundbreaking in this aspect reflects the long-overdue acknowledgement of the discrimination and hate crimes faced by the trans community.
The conviction of the offender, Daqua Lameek Ritter, sheds light on the deep-seated transphobia and intolerance that exist in our society. The use of the “gay panic” defense or any form of hate speech to justify violent actions against trans and gender non-conforming individuals has been a disturbing trend that needs to be addressed.… Continue reading
I can’t shake off the feeling of deep sadness and anger after reading about the tragic death of Nex Benedict, a nonbinary teen in Oklahoma. The circumstances surrounding their passing are shrouded in mystery and deception, particularly with the recent statement from Oklahoma police claiming that Nex’s death was not a result of injuries sustained in a high school fight. As I sit here grappling with my emotions, one thing is abundantly clear — the truth must be uncovered, justice must prevail, and accountability must be upheld.
The timeline of events leading up to Nex’s untimely death is disturbing and raises countless questions.… Continue reading
As I sit here, reading about the tragic incident in Oklahoma where a bullied student lost their life after a brutal attack in a school bathroom, I am overcome with a mix of emotions. The fact that this horrifying outcome was predicted makes it even more infuriating. The disregard for the safety and well-being of students by school administrators and officials is appalling. It is incomprehensible how they could turn a blind eye to the rampant bullying and violence that seems to be pervasive in Owasso High School.
The decision to ban trans students from using bathrooms aligning with their gender identity is not only discriminatory but also dangerous.… Continue reading
Utah official censured for falsely suggesting teenage girl is transgender
As a resident of Utah, it both infuriates and saddens me to witness the recent incident of a Utah official falsely suggesting that a teenage girl is transgender. This incident highlights the deeply rooted transphobia that exists in our society, especially in conservative circles. It is disheartening to see how much importance some individuals place on their personal beliefs and prejudices, even at the expense of a child’s well-being.
I cannot help but wonder if the outcome would have been different if the girl in question were actually transgender. It is unfortunate that trans identities are offensive to some people, to the point where accusations and public shaming become justifiable acts in their eyes.… Continue reading
In the year 2024, it is truly astonishing and disheartening to hear that there are still places in the world where people are sentenced to death simply for being homosexual. It is a stark reminder that progress and enlightenment are not universal, and that there are still individuals and groups who hold archaic beliefs that perpetuate discrimination and violence.
The Houthi-run court in Yemen sentencing 13 people to public execution for homosexuality charges is not a noble act of resistance against tyranny, as some may argue. Rather, it appears to be more indicative of religious fundamentalism and a desire to spread their own brand of authoritarianism.… Continue reading
As a non-religious individual, it’s always interesting to observe the dynamics within religious communities, especially when it comes to topics like LGBTQ+ rights. Recently, Pope Francis made headlines by stating that opposing blessings for gay couples is hypocrisy. It’s refreshing to see a religious leader call out this kind of attitude, as it is something that many people, especially those who identify as religious, engage in on a regular basis.
Hypocrisy is a pervasive issue, not only in religious circles but in society as a whole. We often see individuals criticizing and condemning actions or behaviors that they personally dislike, while turning a blind eye to their own flaws and mistakes.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker