As many of us have seen in the news, Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old nonbinary and Indigenous member of the Choctaw Nation, died on February 8, 2024 following a physical altercation at school. Nex was targeted after being forced to comply with Oklahoma state laws about using bathrooms and changing rooms that match one’s assigned sex at birth. As the devastating news of Nex Benedict’s death continues to come to light and impact our community, it is more important than ever that we let trans, gender non-conforming, and Two Spirit youth know they are loved and supported. That is why we are calling on you in our pursuit to revamp our #LoveLettersToTransQueerAndTwoSpiritYouth.
As we continue to grieve the devastating loss of Nex Benedict at the hands of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and violence, we’re calling on our people and allies to show up for TQ2S+ youth. Let us say: it is always the right time to make your love for and solidarity with trans, nonbinary, and Two Spirit youth loud and clear. One way you can do this is by writing Love Letters to Trans, Queer, and Two Spirit Youth. Submit your letter below, and we’ll boost your words online. Follow our work on our social media platforms (@ourtranstruth), and share this call with friends and allies to amplify this message.
To the trans, gender non-conforming, and Two Spirit youth leaders here, our team is honored to share with you so many messages of love… power… resilience… hope… kindness… and strength. You are not alone.Â