Last Updated: 05 May, 2023 | Views: 535
Age: 73
Profession: Journalist
Other Profession(s): Activist, Photographer, Community Organizer
Famous For: Unofficial Asian American Photographer Laureate
Higher Education: Queens College
About (Profile/Biography)
Corky Lee, real name - Young Kwok Lee (1947-2021) was an American photographer and activist. A famous Asian American photographer, he captures iconic images of Asian Americans. Using his camera, he advocated for greater representation in the media and raised awareness of social issues affecting Asian Americans. The photographs of Lee capture the struggles and triumphs of Asian Americans today, and his legacy inspires and educates people of all ages.
Corky Lee Education:
Corky Lee attended Jamaica High School
1965: Corky Lee went to Queens College for American history
Corky Lee Photographic Work:
1971: Corky Lee began his career as a photographer, taking pictures of Chinatown in New York City.
1975: Lee documented the struggle of garment workers in Chinatown, who were protesting against poor working conditions and low wages.
1982: He covered the murder of Vincent Chin. A Chinese American who was beaten in such a way that cause his death by two white men in Detroit. Lee's photographs of the case helped raise awareness about hate crimes against Asian Americans.
Corky Lee Career:
1969: Corky Lee became interested in photography during a trip to the Woodstock Music Festival, where he took pictures of the performers.
1982: Corky Lee co-founded the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) with five other journalists. He served as the organization's first national vice president for broadcast and was later elected as its national president.
Corky Lee Awards:
1993: Photographer-Artist-in-Residence Award| Special Recognition Award by (AAJA)
2002: New York Press Association Award| Artist-In-Residence
2008: Pioneer Award by Organization of Chinese Americans
2009: Susan Ahn Award
Corky Lee Unknown Facts:
Health issues - Lee suffered from chronic disease and was hospitalized with COVID-19 in January 2021. He passed away on January 27, 2021,
Legacy - Lee's legacy lives on through his iconic photographs, which continue to inspire and educate people about the Asian American experience.