I’d like to first say thank for supporting Triangle through all of the changes that have occurred during 2008. Some staff have moved on to blossom in other areas of nonprofit work. We all benefit from those moves because it increases the network of pro-LGBT persons, allies, and organizations.

As a member of the community, you have seen the effectiveness of Triangle through lobbying in Lansing to create more favorable laws for LGBT citizens. We will continue to press the legislature for equal rights. You also know the needed support that Triangle gives to victims of violence and hate crimes. Hate crime is on the rise. When economic hardship rises, the number of hate crimes also increases. Sadly, this means the number of victims also increases.

Triangle Foundation is pleased to announce attorney and long-time community advocate Alicia J. Skillman as Executive Director.

Ms. Skillman brings extensive experience in public policy and advocacy, fundraising and management and has a demonstrated track record of commitment to LGBT equality. Beginning January 2009, Alicia will be melding her activism and legal career to continue the mission of anti-violence against the LGBT community and to push legislative policy for equal rights.

Ms. Skillman has been an activist in the LGBT community for several years. Ms. Skillman is the co-founder of PFLAG Family Reunion of Detroit, an organization that reaches out to parents and families of LGBT people, especially African-American families. She has presented seminars at the National PFLAG Conference addressing issues involving families of color.

Join over 1,000 new and old friends for an incredible night with 4 national comedians on Saturday, March 14, 2009 with two shows at 6:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Check out all the details and get your tickets at www.comedyfest.org!

Detroit, MI -- Friday, November 14, 2008 -- This morning Triangle Foundation Director of Victim Services, Melissa Pope, testified before the Michigan House Judiciary Committee to advocate for passage of the Michigan Anti-Bias Crime Statute (HB 6340 and 6341).

We are thrilled to report that this evening, the Michigan House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed this hate crimes legislation!

As a result of Triangle Foundation's 17 years of direct work with victims of anti-LGBT violence, our organization has seen the need for these kinds of protections, and we have advocated for hate crimes legislation for over ten years. This evening's passage is a huge victory for our community and for our state!