Last February, the Imperial Court of San Francisco (ICSF) celebrated its 50th anniversary at majestic City Hall. This Golden Jubilee year has been a historic milestone few grassroots organizations can boast. Founded locally in 1965 by José Sarria, the non-profit has grown to nearly 70 chapters throughout North America today, and is the second largest GLBT organization in the world.
Born of the age when bars were raided and drag queens could be arrested unless wearing a button that stated, “I am a man,” pioneers like our founder helped fuel the gay liberation movement. Sarria, a WWII veteran and famous performer at The Black Cat, was the first openly gay candidate in the United States to run for public office: San Francisco Supervisor, 1961. By contrast today, all 50 states have had openly GLBT politicians elected to office in some capacity, even as mayor, senator, and, in one case, governor (Jim McGreevey, New Jersey, 2002–04).
With five decades of noble deeds and resumé highlights that include raising millions of dollars for charity, being recognized by our nation’s capitol, and organizing the successful Harvey Milk postage stamp campaign, it perplexes me that many still haven’t heard of the Imperial Court—even right here in San Francisco! Even among those that are aware, some have the misconception that it’s just a group of drag queens drinking and making noise, while others support the good work of the organization, whose mission statement touts inclusion, raising and distributing funds to other non-profits, and having fun.
There are also those in the community who believe that with acceptance of GLBT persons in general, and all the political advances that have been made over the years, there is no longer a need for the court system, that it is no longer relevant. I respectfully disagree. In order to stay relevant, one must grow and adapt. The ICSF has done just that.
Gay liberation and acceptance was a top priority in the 1960s & 70s until the AIDS pandemic hit. In the early 1980s, large metropolitan areas like New York and San Francisco were ground zero for the disease, so it was only natural to switch focus to education, prevention, compassion and philanthropy. Thanks to advancement of science and medicine, the next few decades saw HIV become a manageable chronic disease with much more funding. The desire to help others in need grew, thus expanding charitable contributions to include causes outside of the GLBT community. Finally, with the arrival of a new century, a renewed energy of liberation and demand for equality became top priority. Now with marriage equality and anti-discrimination laws passed, the tides are changing once again. What comes next and how the ICSF stays relevant is up to our future leaders.
Every year at around this time, the city streets come alive with inspired candidates for the title of Emperor & Empress (E&E) canvasing for votes. These individuals view the ICSF as a strong valued organization, one whose visibility and support can help them make a difference in the world we live in, particularly right here at home. The simple fact that The Imperial Court can inspire community members to give so much of themselves year after year in these volunteer positions proves current relevance.
It takes tremendous courage to put yourself out there and run for a title. Although voting has already taken place, and the election results will not be revealed until the end of Coronation 51, the following is a window into the brave community members who tossed their hat into the ring this year in their quest to become your next E&E.
There was only one candidate for Emperor this year, Sal Tovar, and he needs 50% of votes (plus 1) to successfully win his seat at the Dias and represent our fair City by the Bay. Originally from San Antonio, Sal has called San Francisco his home for the past decade, concentrating his fundraising efforts and time with CheerSF. His involvement with the ICSF for the past few years includes being Imperial Crown Prince 2014, and the motivation to run is to “take the knowledge of what I have learned the past two years and direct it towards grooming the next leaders of this organization so we might thrive for another 50 years.” He believes “being relevant is believing in the organization by embracing unity through friendship and love while empowering our youth and gaining political clout.” A big fan of Camp Sunburst, it’s no wonder he chose unicorns and rainbows as a theme. He is Salvadorable.
Vying for the office of Empress, we have two candidates: Emma Peel and Sadie Ladie.
Emma Peel was born in Detroit, lived in Arizona, and moved to San Francisco in the summer of ‘87. She quickly established herself by way of the club scene and became aware of the ICSF during campaign season 1994. Shortly thereafter, she met Mama José, whose passion inspired her to become even more involved. Remaining active in both the Imperial and Ducal Courts these past 20 years, she became Miss Golden Gate 2008 and Imperial Crown Princess 2013. Her motivation for running for Empress is “to continue to raise money and awareness for (ICSF), all the while doing so with a sense of fun and community.” Some of her favorite charities are the AIDS Housing Alliance and AIDS Emergency Fund. She hopes to get different segments of our diverse community like Trans and Rodeo re-energized in their involvement with the Court. EMMA’s aPEELing in 2016.
Sadie Ladie is a transplant from Arkansas and moved to San Francisco 13 years ago. For the past 12, she has dedicated her time to CheerSF, acting as Executive Director for the past six. Drawn to the Court’s pride in building a family, her involvement with the Court over the past few years includes the title of Miss Golden Gate 2014. She believes her experience owning and running a small business will be of value to the ICSF and will help maximize fundraising. Her favorite charities are pet orientated, PAWS and Muttville. She is inspired by the selflessness and dedication of ICSF Monarchs and members, and would be honored to continue that legacy. “While we must embrace the change within our community and city, we must remember that our objective is, and always will be, to help those in need.”
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