Become a Member

Membership in the Imperial Court of New York is open to all throughout the year — we are completely and unmistakably inclusive. Our membership meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the LGBT Center at 208 West 13th Street in New York City. Why not drop by to meet some of us!

For more information about us and how to be part of the most glamorous party in town, email us at: membership@icny.org or download our membership application.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be royalty?

It could happen to you by joining one of the most fun groups in town! New members join the Court as a Lord or a Lady (gender is your choice), and based on dedication to the Court and its causes, one can be elevated in rank all the way to Prince Royal or Princess Royale. Those who work the hardest and help to raise the most money for the Court’s charities may even be rewarded by being elected Emperor or Empress — not just an honor, but an obligation and a community commitment.

The Monarchs represent the Court at dozens of events, not only our own but also those of other organizations and causes. They travel with their entourages to other kingdoms across the USA, Canada and Mexico, and dress and behave with the dignity and elegance of royalty as seen throughout the ages. Talk about camp! We bow, we curtsey, we behead (just kidding) and continually raise money and social awareness. It must be said here that all jewelry, travel, and dress are at the complete expense of each member’s personal purse — no money raised by the Court goes to our trinkets or travels. All profits go to the beneficiaries selected for each event. From time to time, we will earmark our donations to specific projects or needs. Here are a few:

  • The Stay Close Campaign for PFLAG New York City
  • Thanksgiving Dinner  with God’s Love We Deliver
  • amfAR’s HIV/AIDS Treatment Directory
  • Mammography Program at Callen-Lorde Health Center
  • Hearts & Voices for LIFEbeat

What sets us apart from everybody else — besides the big hair, bigger jewels and really big dresses — is our attitude: humor, humanitarianism, inclusion and diversity. We take our special talents and differences and employ them to raise money and consciousness. These are the keystones to all 70 chapters in the International Court System. Our brother and sister courts can be found from Tijuana, Mexico to San Francisco to Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. We are truly everywhere!