SFCHC remembers long-time supporter and friend Ken Hamai

San Francisco Community Health, along with many friends in the queer Asian and Pacific Islander (API) community, have spent the last month mourning the loss of Ken Hamai, who passed away on Oct. 1, 2022. Ken was a staunch supporter of API and LGBTQ rights for decades. In the 1980s and 90s, Ken was pivotal in bringing together the API queer community to support a wide range of causes and institutions in San Francisco.  

“Ken was a consummate supporter of API Wellness Center and San Francisco Community Health Center. I could count on him and his husband Jack every time to show up and add flair and joy to our events,” SFCHC CEO Lance Toma said. “Ken dressed to the nines everywhere he went and was a beacon of light and love for every queer API community member. We have lost a stalwart mentor, brother, and friend. I am heartbroken. All of us at San Francisco Community Health Center are heartbroken, and we are sending all our love to Jack.” 

Ken was an organizer whose dynamic energy helped fuel the success of our former signature event Bloom, as well as events held by our community partners GLBTQ+ Asian Pacific Alliance (GAPA) and the Imperial Court of San Francisco. Ken was also an entrepreneur who, together with Jack, owned Bay Winds Lighting Company on Market Street. His devotion and friendship, while greatly missed, will always be remembered as SFCHC continues its mission to provide quality health services for all.

Thank you, Ken.