Using his camera as a “weapon against injustice,” Chinese American photographer Corky Lee’s art is his activism. His unforgettable images of Asian American life empowered generations. This film’s intimate portrait reveals the triumphs and tragedies of the man behind the lens.
Join us while we look back 50 years as Chinese American photographer Corky Lee tirelessly documented the celebrations, struggles, and daily lives of Asian American Pacific Islanders. Determined to push mainstream media to include AAPI culture in the visual record of American history, Lee produced an astonishing archive of nearly a million compelling photographs. His work takes on new urgency with the alarming rise in anti-Asian attacks during the Covid pandemic. This film’s intimate portrait reveals the triumphs and tragedies of the man behind the lens.
About the film
The film celebrates the life and legacy of Corky Lee (1947–2021) —
the son of Chinese immigrants
who became one of America’s most influential documentarians of Asian
American history,
culture, and activism. Often called the “Undisputed, Unofficial, Asian
American Photographer
Laureate,” Lee used his camera to reveal the everyday stories and
struggles of a community too
often overlooked, creating a visual legacy that continues to inspire
generations.
Following the screening, audience members will have the opportunity to
participate in a panel
discussion and Q&A with the filmmakers, exploring the intersections
of art, identity, and civic
engagement.
About Corky Lee
Born in Queens, New York, to immigrant parents, Corky Lee devoted over
five decades to
capturing the Asian American experience through his photography. From
civil rights movements
to cultural celebrations, his lens documented the richness, resilience,
and visibility of Asian
American life. He described his work as a mission to “change America
one photograph at a time.”
Learn more about his life and legacy at www.corkylee.org and about the film
at
www.photographicjustice.com
.
About the Rochester Screening
The Rochester screening, hosted by APAPA-ROC, will feature the
documentary followed by a
panel discussion and audience Q&A with the filmmakers. The event aims
to celebrate cultural
heritage, encourage youth participation, and foster meaningful dialogue
across communities.
APAPA Rochester is collaborating with organizations across Greater
Rochester and Monroe
County to make this an inclusive and community-driven event that honors
Corky Lee’s vision of
unity and representation.
Venue Website: www.theaterais.com
Film Website: www.photographicjustice.com
Presented by: APAPA
Rochester NY (Asian Pacific American Public Affairs Association)
Media Contact: apapa.roc@apapa.org
Tickets: $10 general admission | Students:
Free
Transportation for students: Register on Campus Groups for the
shuttle bus.
Please submit interpreting requests to myAccess.rit.edu.
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