Corky Lee’s Legacy 

On January 27, 2021, we lost renowned Asian American activist, community organizer, photographer, and journalist Corky Lee to COVID-19. Self-proclaimed as the unofficial Asian American Photographer Laureate, his work has had a profound impact on shaping Asian American representation in U.S. history. Born in 1947 in Queens and raised by immigrant parents from China, Corky taught himself photography, and strived to capture the underrepresented and largely ignored world of Americans of Asian descent.

Corky documented a range of subjects from the everyday life of residents on the Lower East Side, shop owners at work, to major historical movements, such as protests during the height of the civil rights movement in the 1970s in Chinatown. His recreation of the historic photograph commemorating the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, but, in his version, including Asian faces, is among his notable works. Beyond his photography, he worked as a community organizer and a mentor to many generations of Asian American students and fellow activists. In recognition of Corky Lee’s contribution to Asian American communities, the then New York City Mayor David Dinkins, proclaimed May 5, 1988 to be “Corky Lee Day”. 

Our Mission

To honor Corky Lee’s legacy and contribution to helping Asian Americans and immigrants feel seen and heard through his photography, OCA-NY, OCA-NJ, OCA-LI, OCA-WHV, Think!Chinatown and Chinese Adoptee Alliance (formerly, Families with Children From China) would like to co-name Mosco Street in the heart of Chinatown, New York as “Corky Lee Way”. As we face hardships due to Covid-19 and continue to hear heartbreaking stories of anti-Asian violence, we believe this act not only recognizes Corky Lee but also sends a reminder of the strength and resilience of the Asian American community. This will ensure that future generations can remember and be inspired by Corky Lee’s life and work. We hope you will join us in support of “Corky Lee Way”. 

Why Mosco Street?

Mosco St at Mott is where Corky Lee held his last public photography exhibit titled “Corky Lee and Friends” at the corner newsstand in October 2020. There, everyday, he shared his art and deep knowledge with friends and strangers alike. This intersection in the heart of Corky’s beloved Chinatown continues in his spirit as a gathering space for community art, parties and conversation, and so it is fitting to co-name it ‘Corky Lee Way’.

Your Support

By signing this petition, you are affirming that you are in support of the co-naming of Mosco Street as "Corky Lee Way."