Kerry Thomas has been living with HIV since 1988 and currently works as the Sero Project Community Strategist for Decriminalization.

In 2011, Kerry joined the Sero Project Board of Directors while serving two consecutive 15-year sentences for failing to disclose his HIV status to his sexual partner. Kerry’s sentence was commuted, and he was released on parole in September 2023.

Since 2014, Kerry has been an HIV decriminalization activist, and he spoke from prison via a TV feed at the first “HIV is Not a Crime” conference. He also spoke to the media about the care conditions for prisoners living with HIV. Kerry’s efforts have been recognized by POZ Magazine, which named him to its “POZ 100” list in 2013 and 2021 for his advocacy work in the HIV/AIDS community. Kerry also served as Co-Chair at the 24th International AIDS Conference, Prioritizing the Right to Health and Wellbeing.
While in prison, Kerry collaborated with various outreach organizations on issues related to HIV criminalization and gave interviews on the topic. Through his work with the Sero Project, Kerry aims to raise awareness of HIV criminalization laws and contribute his story to broaden the conversation towards a more just justice system.

Currently, along with his works as a staff member with the Sero Project, Kerry is a member of the USPLHIV Caucasus, Idaho Coalition of HIV Health and Safety, Vera Institute of Justice D4D advisory board, and the IDOC Citizens Advisory Committee.