AAPI Heritage Month: The Impact of James “Jim” Mitsuo Cua
By Nicole Verdes
James “Jim” Mitsuo Cua is a celebrated figure within San Diego’s LGBTQ+ community, whose activism from 1984 to 1994 significantly shaped the landscape of advocacy for sexual, racial, and gender equity. His steadfast dedication to the cause, combined with his considerable achievements in creating support systems for historically marginalized groups, highlights the transformative power of individual commitment to social justice. This column serves not only to honor Jim’s legacy but also to recognize a project that features a digital exhibit created by Lambda Archives intern Anjali, a junior in the History Department at the University of San Diego. The digital exhibit, which can be found on our website, serves as a modern tribute to Cua’s contributions, blending historical context with contemporary engagement.
Born on April 21, 1961, in Honolulu, HI, Cua was the son of first-generation Japanese mother Mitsuko Sonomura and second-generation Filipino father Allejho Lopez Cua. Growing up in a household marked by fundamentalist Republican values, Jim’s journey toward self-acceptance and activism began when he realized he was gay at a young age. This realization led him to break away from a restrictive upbringing and seek a political path that aligned with his identity and values. By his early twenties, he emerged as a pivotal player in the San Diego political landscape, initially by joining the San Diego Democratic Club at the age of 23.
Cua’s political engagement intensified after he was diagnosed with HIV just two years later. Rather than retreating in fear, he was spurred into action, amplifying his advocacy to fight for rights within the LGBTQ+ community. He quickly rose through the ranks, serving as the program director of the Democratic Party and playing a crucial role in founding the Harvey Milk Democratic Club, which focused exclusively on LGBTQ+ issues. This dedication laid the groundwork for a life devoted to breaking down barriers and creating supportive communities.
One of Cua’s most profound contributions was the establishment of the Gay and Lesbian Asian Social Support group (GLASS) in 1988. Recognizing the unique intersectional challenges faced by queer individuals within the Asian Pacific Islander community, GLASS provided essential support and a safe haven for many. This was followed by the formation of LAGADU (Lesbians and Gays of African Descent United), another pivotal organization aimed at addressing racial disparities within the LGBTQ+ community in which Jim Cua played a pivotal role highlighting his work towards cross-racial coalition building. CUA’s commitment to inclusivity was rooted in understanding the feelings of alienation that people of color could experience, even within ostensibly inclusive spaces.
Jim’s activism extended beyond LGBTQ+ rights. His work with the California chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) and his volunteer role at the WomanCare Clinic, where he served as a security escort for women seeking reproductive healthcare, exemplified his belief in intersectional advocacy. Cua fought fiercely for gender equality, understanding how interconnected various struggles for justice truly are. He was instrumental in organizing the first gay and lesbian contingent for the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, reinforcing the links between racial justice and LGBTQ+ rights.
In 1992, Cua co-founded St. Martin de Porres, a residential shelter for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. This initiative became a sanctuary for those affected by the epidemic at a time when societal stigma and discrimination exacerbated their suffering. His unwavering commitment to caring for and championing the rights of others was encapsulated in a heartfelt letter he wrote shortly before his death on May 22, 1994, which urged others to continue the fight for social justice: “I have dedicated a decade of my life to the cause of social justice. As you have loved me, you have loved my causes. Please support our future. Please support this vital work.”
Even after his passing at the age of 33 from AIDS-related complications, Cua’s influence endures. He was posthumously honored on the San Diego LGBT Community Wall of Honor in 2005 and recognized with the establishment of the James M. Cua Award for Gay and Lesbian Rights by the San Diego Foundation for Change, reflecting his tireless dedication to advocacy.
Through the digital exhibit created by Anjali, Cua’s story gains a new layer of accessibility and relevance, allowing current and future generations to engage with his legacy. This project honors Cua’s impact while situating his work within the ongoing fight for equality and inclusion.
Jim Cua’s life exemplified the power of activism driven by personal experience, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to equity. His multifaceted contributions to the LGBTQ+ community in San Diego laid the groundwork for ongoing efforts toward inclusivity and justice. As we reflect on his remarkable journey, we honor both the battles he fought during his short but impactful life and the continuing struggles that shape the LGBTQ+ experience today. Jim Cua’s legacy remains a guiding light for activists and allies alike, underscoring the importance of community, solidarity, and relentless advocacy in the pursuit of social justice.