Barry Crimmins was a pivotal figure in the development of the Boston comedy scene, remembered not only for his wit but also for his deep commitment to social justice. Born on July 3, 1953, in Kingston, New York, Crimmins moved to Boston, where he left an indelible mark on the world of comedy. In the late 1970s, Crimmins founded one of Boston's first comedy clubs at Ding Ho, a Chinese restaurant in Cambridge. His openhearted approach to nurturing talent transformed the Ding Ho into a launching pad for the careers of numerous comedians who would become notable during the comedy boom of the 1980s. Names such as Steven Wright, Paula Poundstone, Lenny Clarke, Kevin Meaney, and Denis Leary are among those who found a starting ground under Crimmins’ wing. In 1983, Crimmins further expanded the comedy scene by establishing the Stitches Comedy Club in Boston, which thrived for a decade. Amidst his contributions to nurturing comedy, Crimmins also gained recognition as a stand-up comedian himself, appearing on HBO's Young Comedians Special and shows like "Evening at the Improv." Despite his personal success, Crimmins saw comedy as more than entertainment; it was a platform to critique societal injustices. His fiercely pointed material, which often addressed uncomfortable truths, resonated deeply with fellow comedians, earning him the title of a "Comedians' Comedian." Beyond comedy, Barry Crimmins was a passionate advocate against child pornography, fueled by his own harrowing experiences of childhood sexual abuse. In 1995, he testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee, courageously sharing his story and urging reforms. His compelling testimony led to significant policy changes, including pushing America Online to adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward the trading of child pornography on its platform. In 2015, Crimmins’ life and work were brought into the spotlight through the documentary "Call Me Lucky," directed by his friend Bobcat Goldthwait. The film, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, was met with critical acclaim and highlighted Crimmins' legacy as both a comedian and an activist. The following year, he released his first hour-long comedy special, produced by Louis CK and made available as a digital download. Crimmins also authored a collection of essays titled "Never Shake Hands With a War Criminal," published by the independent Seven Stories Press. A longtime contributor to the Boston Phoenix, he used his writing as another avenue to express his incisive views on politics and society. Barry Crimmins passed away on February 28, 2018, but his impact on comedy and activism continues to be remembered and celebrated by those who knew him and were inspired by his work.