The LGBTQIA+ community of San Antonio gathered on Saturday night for a vigil to remember and honor the life of Nex Benedict, a non-binary high school student who tragically lost their life following a brutal attack inside a school restroom. According to a report by KEN5, the event aimed to raise awareness about the rising violence against transgender individuals, highlighted by the recent deaths of Benedict and Chevy Hill, a black trans man murdered in Atlanta.
Overcome with emotion,, and solidarity, attendees used candles and bubbles to pay tribute to the victims. "We see our children being attacked. We're seeing our kids being murdered, because we are different," Sofia Sepulveda, Field Director of Equality Texas, shared with KEN5. To fight this prejudice, Sepulveda urged for greater understanding, suggesting, "Befriend somebody who's trans. You probably already know somebody who is trans."
The vigil, which took place at San Antonio's Crockett Park as per the event details on Facebook, also served as a call to action. Vigil organizers stressed the importance of support for the LGBTQIA+ youth, spotlighting the story of Leo Castillo, a trans alumnus of Thomas Jefferson High School. "I hit rock bottom, you know, and I know that it's not easy. It's hard, you know, getting back up, but just try. You have to try every day, get connected to people that love you," Castillo said to KEN5.
In a message to legislators and the public alike, organizers underscored the necessity of informed voting. Sepulveda highlighted, "It's election time. Come out and vote, and make sure that you're voting with your heart, not with your wallet," a sentiment echoing the theme that the well-being of the most vulnerable should be a priority to all. The event was not merely a space for mourning but a fierce declaration for change and protection of LGBTQIA+ rights.
The loss of Nex Benedict, who, as friends and family remember, enjoyed nature, The Walking Dead, drawing, and their cat, Zeus, has elicited a profound call to action within the community. Organizers and participants of the vigil are united in their resolve to ensure such deaths are not in vain and to push for a society that truly protects everyone's right to be their authentic selves. For more support and resources, LGBTQIA+ individuals are encouraged to seek assistance.
