“Jill and I are heartbroken by the recent loss of Nex Benedict.
Every young person deserves to have the fundamental right and freedom to be who
they are, and feel safe and supported at school and in their communities. Nex
Benedict, a kid who just wanted to be accepted, should still be here with us
today. Nonbinary and transgender people are some of the bravest Americans I
know. But nobody should have to be brave just to be themselves.
In memory of Nex, we must all recommit to our work to end
discrimination and address the suicide crisis impacting too many nonbinary and
transgender children. Bullying is hurtful and cruel, and no one should face the
bullying that Nex did. Parents and schools must take reports of bullying
seriously.
My prayers are with Nex’s family, friends, and all who loved them
– and to all LGBTQI+ Americans for whom this tragedy feels so personal, know
this: I will always have your back.”