Editors, Vineyard Gazette;

The Health Imperative Sexual Health Clinic in Vineyard Haven proudly flies a sign provided by the Friends of Family Planning. It states, “All Are Welcome Here,” and serves as an invitation to and support for all people who need sexual and reproductive health care services.

After reading last week’s New York Times article about the beating of sophomore Nex Benedict in their Oklahoma high school bathroom, many of us are saddened and outraged that anyone would bully and harm another who is different or doesn’t align with others’ preconceived notions of gender and expression. Sadly, Nex who is nonbinary, was taken to the hospital, released from care and expelled from school for two weeks for their part in the beating. They died the next day.

Oklahoma is far away from Martha’s Vineyard and we all can hope that our Island schools, businesses, places of worship, and community treat all people with kindness and acceptance. Bullying and hate have no place on our Island and we hope that allyship will overcome anger and violence. 

Friends of Family Planning board members will continue to work to support any and all non-binary, LGBTQA+ Islanders and others in all aspects of their lives, public and private, and face down bullies and those who seek to hurt our community members.

Terre D. Young

West Tisbury