Upcoming documentary will examine the life of Kiyoshi Kuromiya, the 'Forrest Gump of activism'

"Kiyoshi," an upcoming documentary, highlights the life and activism of Kiyoshi Kuromiya, who played a pivotal role in LGBTQ rights and the AIDS movement. Born in a WWII internment camp, Kuromiya became involved in the civil rights movement and was arrested for distributing anti-draft materials. He later ran a 24-hour hotline for HIV and AIDS information during the crisis of the 1980s. Filmmakers Glenn Holsten and Keith Brand have conducted interviews with friends and colleagues, as well as Kuromiya's brother, to provide a comprehensive view of his life. The documentary aims to premiere at festivals and local screenings in the spring or summer of 2026.

Funding from the Pew Center for Arts & Heritage has facilitated the film’s production, which began in 2023. Holsten recreated significant locations from Kuromiya's life for on-camera interviews, enhancing the narrative's authenticity. The filmmakers hope to honor Kuromiya's legacy and inspire future activists through this documentary.