FARGO – The LGBTQ+ Safety Taskforce announced its official launch on Monday, Feb. 2, to address significant shortcomings in state intervention for LGBTQ+ youth who are struggling, with the goal of increasing protective factors and reducing suicidality through community connections and outreach.

“Over the years, life has gotten harder, not easier, for the LGBTQ+ youth in our state,” said Faye Seidler, taskforce organizer and suicide prevention advocate. “Federal funding cuts and policy direction have significantly limited what was already minimal help and support, while writing on the wall suggests things will only get worse.”

The taskforce is not a formal organization but will function as a collection of volunteers across North Dakota who will advocate in their local communities and legislative districts for LGBTQ+ youth by connecting resources, sharing data, developing support networks and working to challenge cultural stigma and prejudice in the state.

“North Dakota no longer collects data for LGBTQ+ youth, and the short window we had into their experiences shows alarming struggles with suicidality, substance use and bullying that we’ve yet to meaningfully address or even acknowledge,” Seidler said.

To launch this effort, Seidler will be hosting a 16-hour Twitch stream marathon on Saturday, Jan. 31, between 8 a.m.-noon. During this time, she’ll answer any questions about the taskforce.