GRAHAM D’CRAQUER IS AN EMPEROR WITH A NEW GROOVE

How has your experience of being Emperor enriched or changed the trajectory of your life?

This is actually the second time I’ve been Emperor.  The first was in 2020.  But when  I was to step up, the world closed down due to the pandemic.  Every thing we did was virtual.  This reign has given me the opportunity to visit different Courts across the U.S. and Canada and meet so many new people.  My life is definitely richer and fuller because I’ve had the chance to get to know all these marvelous folks who have similar goals to mine.  

Can you recall an experience that stands out in your mind as extraordinary?

We had the pleasure of experiencing the extraordinary hospitality of both the Hawaii and Alaska Courts. Both were learning experiences in the art of hospitality, as well as being enormous fun.  

What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Night of A Thousand Gowns?

As always, the Night of a Thousand Gowns is a big celebration of who we are as a community. Seeing so many like-minded folks and organizations coming together to help lift up those who need it is what it’s all about and gives me so much hope. And we get to dress up and put on a show, as part of the bargain. There’s lots of glitz and glamour, but in the end, it’s all about raising money for our beneficiaries.   

What can we expect for the entertainment this year?

We are finalizing the entertainment right now, but those we are considering will not disappoint.

What significance does your title “The Noble Silver Giraffe Emperor of Conversation, Compassion, and Charity” have?

The silver part comes from the color of my hair. The conversation part is what I believe is the keystone of where any exchange about our community has to start. Compassion and charity are the core of what we are and do as the Imperial Court. And the noble part comes from how I hope we are perceived in what we do.   

What motivated you to join the Imperial Court of New York? 

The goals and mission of the Imperial Court perfectly aligned with what I see as the best way forward to make a difference in the community at large and especially our little piece of it. 

What was your greatest accomplishment this past year?

In truth, any accomplishments we have achieved this year have been realized because of the Court’s phenomenal and hard-working membership. I get to be the visible, forward-facing representation of all that dedication and work. It’s an honor and privilege and one I do not take lightly. It would be difficult to single out one accomplishment. We have all worked very hard to help make sure our beneficiaries get what they need to do their vital work.