Nanette Kazaoka, aged 83, passed away in New York City and is honored for her dedication to HIV awareness and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Known for her striking actions, she participated in the 2004 naked protest during the Republican National Convention, pushing for debt cancellation for impoverished nations as essential in combating AIDS. Over her 35 years with ACT UP NY, she challenged anti-LGBTQ+ policies, protested against homophobia in the military, and maintained a spirit of humor despite facing arrest. Her activism was inspired by personal loss and deep connections to the LGBTQ+ community.
"She is perhaps best remembered for her participation in a 2004 protest in front of Madison Square Garden during the Republican National Convention, when she and 11 fellow activists staged a dramatic naked demonstration, demanding debt cancellation for impoverished countries. ‘Bush, Stop AIDS. Drop the Debt Now!’ they chanted, with slogans stenciled in black paint on their bodies. The bold protest drew national attention and underscored the urgency of global debt relief as a key element in the fight against AIDS."
"When arrested, she always approached the consequences with humor and resolve," according to her daughter.
"Kazaoka... was further moved to activism by the death of her second husband, Katsushiga 'Kats' Kazaoka, a Japanese American psychologist who had been interned during World War II. He died of cancer in 1984, and she began working as a receptionist while studying occupational therapy at Downstate Medical Center."
"By 1990, she had earned her degree and sought work with AIDS patients. She joined ACT UP NY in 1988 and remained active in the group for 35 years."
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