Kiyoshi Kuromiya

Kiyoshi Kuromiya was a prominent Japanese-American activist, writer, and artist who made significant contributions to the Asian American community. Born in 1943 in Heart Mountain, Wyoming, Kuromiya spent his formative years in a Japanese internment camp during World War II, an experience that profoundly shaped his activism and advocacy for civil rights.

Kuromiya's impact on the Asian American community was broad and far-reaching. He was a leading voice in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, advocating for the decriminalization of homosexuality and the recognition of same-sex marriage. He also worked tirelessly to raise awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, co-founding the Critical Path AIDS Project and serving as the executive director of the Philadelphia AIDS Task Force.

Throughout his career, Kuromiya was a fierce advocate for social justice and human rights, fighting against racism, discrimination, and oppression. He was a key figure in the anti-Vietnam War movement and participated in numerous protests and demonstrations. He was also an outspoken critic of the criminal justice system, working to reform policies that disproportionately impacted communities of color.

In addition to his activism, Kuromiya was also an accomplished artist and writer. He co-founded the queer literary journal "Blackheart" and contributed to numerous publications throughout his career. His artwork, which often explored themes of social justice and civil rights, was featured in galleries across the country.