Dakota OutRight

Dakota OutRight serves the LGBTQIA2S+ community in Bismarck, Mandan, and the surrounding Central North Dakota region. Tracing its roots to informal social gatherings begun in 2003, the organization formally emerged in 2004 to build visibility, foster peer connection, and advocate for civil rights in North Dakota's capital city. An entirely volunteer-run working board coordinates all initiatives and community events.

The organization's premier signature event is Capitol City Pride, an annual multi-day festival held on the North Dakota Capitol Grounds that brings together tens of local organizations, affirming vendors, performers, and thousands of attendees. All festival events remain free and open to the public, underscoring the group's dedication to accessible community celebration.

Throughout the year, Dakota OutRight hosts recurring gatherings to nurture connection and mutual support. Signature social programs include Stitch & Exist, an informal crafting and needlework meetup; Roll With Us, a community roller skating outing; and Come As You Are, a relaxed conversation circle. The organization also hosts the Queerly Reading book club and open board office hours to solicit grassroots input.

In addition to community events, the organization leads statewide advocacy and education. Dakota OutRight delivers Creating Safe Spaces educational workshops to regional schools and workplaces, publishes the Pink Book Bismarck affirming resource directory, and partners with civil rights coalitions to defend LGBTQ+ rights before state and municipal governing bodies.