As a new Trikone board, we wanted to take a moment to update our friends on all of the wonderful work that Trikone has been doing over the past year.
2010 was a year of much change. Many members of the earlier Board had to leave and move to other cities, take up new jobs, or pursue new interests. There was a time when the Board had shrunk down to just three brave souls – Manoj, Praney and Ray. But thanks to a steady stream of volunteers (and tireless recruiting) we are back to nine enthusiastic members filled with ideas for
new programs and activities.
As part of a capacity building grant from Horizon, we worked with an external consultant to survey the community and gather recommendations on the short and long term priorities for Trikone. We
made some organizational changes based on the consultant’s recommendations: Poonam returned to the Board as an interim co-chair, and along with Amar, have been our fearless leaders.
Ali, as the new editor, published two issues of the magazine last year. The magazine reached out to over 200 subscribers worldwide. Trikone magazine is now also available in an electronic format
and can be purchased online.
We had many exciting events last year. Bollywood by the Bay was a memorable dance party that served as an event bridging the Trikone community and Asha (www.ashanet.org). We celebrated Pride by marching in the Parade, having pre-pride parties, and of course, our famous Dyke Brunch. Not to forget, Kulture Kulcha was a big hit with nearly 300 guests. In addition, we had a big and festive presence at the India Day Parade to reach out to a larger South Asian community in the Bay Area. We organised multiple Chit Chat ‘n’ Chai events, thanks to our many volunteers who offered to lead the events.
We also had the annual town hall meeting to seek guidance and feedback from the community. Many members expressed the need for more events in the south bay, more social events, especially those bridging Trikone and the Women of Trikone, and more advocacy and outreach opportunities for the community. In response, we are planning a slew of new events this year – more Trikone potlucks, same-sex Bollywood dance lessons in the South Bay, hikes, camping trips, and perhaps even a ski-trip by the end of the year.
It wasn’t just all parties and celebration. Thanks to Harsha, the Advocacy Director, we are building up an Advocacy Team of volunteers and are working hard to make a difference for LGBTQ South
Asians everywhere. We coordinated a media response, on behalf of Trikone members, over the outrageous treatment that Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) meted out to the Late Dr Siras. We contacted major Media Outlets condemning TV9’s sting operation in Hyderabad where they outed many young gay men. TV9 eventually apologized and was also fined. We participated in SF AIDS Walk and raised several hundred dollars.
Looking forward, we are hoping to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Trikone with a Big Splash! Planning is underway for a special edition of Kulture Kulcha for this year. Email Manoj if you want to be a volunteer or participate at the event. Planning is also underway for a big bash at Pride, talk to Amar to learn more and help out for Pride. Volunteering for Trikone is a fun way to make new friends, give back to the community, and perhaps even meet that special someone!
Volunteering for Trikone is a fun way to make new friends, give back to the community, and perhaps even meet that special someone!
The monthly Board meetings are now open to the community. Look for announcements on Facebook (www.facebook.com/trikone) and the Trikone website.
And of course, as always, your support keeps the organisation running. Please contribute whatever you can at donate.trikone.org. We’re giving out a free magazine subscription with every donation of $100.
We are looking forward to an exciting 25th year anniversary!
Trikone Board