Unprecedented attacks on LGBTQ+ community by North Dakota legislators continue
Bismarck, ND — On the heels of the North Dakota legislature passing a near total abortion ban SB 2150, Governor Burgum signed a gender-affirming care ban for minors into law. It is yet another harmful example where politicians have inserted themselves into private, personal medical decisions.
Transgender and gender non-conforming adolescents experience social stigma, discrimination, and physical and sexual violence that is associated with significant health disparities. This can lead to increased rates of substance use, risk-taking behavior, and a two to three-fold increased risk of depression and suicidality. Comprehensive, gender-affirming care, and supportive social and family environments, leads to health outcomes for gender diverse teens that are similar to their cisgender peers.
This was one of many bills passed by the legislature to create a hostile environment for trans and gender diverse youth in North Dakota. LGBTQ+ youth need to be supported and protected instead of further stigmatized by lawmakers.
Statement from Katie Christensen, North Dakota State Director, External Affairs for Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund:
“Harmful legislation further stigmatizes, isolates, and negates the lived experiences of gender diverse people. Gender-expansive youth and their families deserve our support. People should be allowed to express themselves authentically, without interference from politicians. To trans and gender-expansive youth in North Dakota, I see you. You deserve to have access to life affirming health care.”
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Founded in 1992, the Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit organization. As the advocacy and electoral arm of PPMNS, we mobilize supporters of all parties to defend and increase access to family planning services and fact based, medically accurate sexuality education. We work to inspire and engage citizens to take up the cause of reproductive health and rights through education, electoral activity, grassroots organizing and legislative advocacy.
Visit us at www.plannedparenthoodadvocate.org
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