Sugar B. Real is a trailblazing three-time Empress of the Imperial Court of New York, whose leadership blends regal pageantry with fearless advocacy. A historic figure within the Court, she was the first Black empress, the first cisgender and ally empress, and only the second monarch to reign three times. Rooted in the activist legacy of founder José Sarria, Sugar B. Real’s mission is grounded in compassion, visibility and service—raising funds for vulnerable communities, championing trans youth and families, and continuing a decades-long commitment to love, dignity and equality through the power of performance and community.
Inspired by the opulence, romance and Regency-era glamour of Bridgerton, this year’s Imperial Court celebration is far more than a nod to corsets and crowns—it is a living testament to a legacy forged in courage, activism and community. From its earliest days, when drag royalty defiantly raised funds during the AIDS crisis at a time when such expression was criminalized, to today’s vibrant and visible LGBTQIA+ advocacy, the Imperial Court of New York City continues to blend pageantry with purpose. Like Bridgerton itself, the Court honors tradition while boldly embracing inclusivity, proving that glamour and resistance have always walked hand in hand.
At the heart of this reign is a renewed commitment to service, visibility and unwavering support for the most vulnerable members of the community. With a volunteer-based membership open to all who are ready to give back, the Court stands as a beacon of fellowship and activism—raising funds, uplifting voices and ensuring that the fight for equality remains both elegant and unrelenting. Guided by decades of history and inspired by pioneers who once declared “No More,” today’s leaders continue that mission with resilience, compassion and a royal flourish fit for Lady Whistledown herself.
This year’s theme draws inspiration from Bridgerton — opulence, romance, and Regency-era glamour. How are you and the Court interpreting that aesthetic through a modern LGBTQ+ lens?
The Imperial Court of New York, along with the broader court system encompassing 72 chapters throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and most recently Puerto Rico began its fundraising initiatives through drag performances rooted in opulence and regency during a period when such expressions were legally prohibited. Members took significant risks by presenting themselves as royalty to support fundraising efforts during the early days of the AIDS crisis, particularly at a time when government assistance was unavailable. In recent years, modern drag has achieved greater visibility and has positively highlighted the LGBT+ community, further enabling sustained support and advocacy for those in need.
Bridgerton is known for blending tradition with bold inclusivity. In what ways does that parallel the mission of the Imperial Court of New York City today?
The Imperial Court of New York (ICNY) demonstrates its commitment to inclusivity and diversity by welcoming anyone who is passionate about giving back to the community. Membership is not limited by identity or background; rather, the primary requirement is a desire to serve and support others.
Having been a member for over 20 years, I can personally attest to the openness and acceptance that define the ICNY. As a cisgender woman and an ally. Throughout my tenure, the unwavering encouragement and camaraderie I have received from fellow members have been instrumental in fostering a true sense of belonging. The fellowship within the organization ensures that all members feel valued and empowered to contribute, regardless of their individual identities.
For those who may not fully understand the scope of the Court’s work, can you speak about its philanthropic mission and the communities it directly impacts?
The Imperial Court system was established in the ‘80s during the height of the AIDS crisis to provide essential funding for research and support for individuals affected by the epidemic. Our organization remains committed to this mission by assisting any organization in need of financial resources or a friendly face and a song in their heart. Our membership is entirely volunteer-based and remains dedicated to serving those in need.
What charities or causes are especially close to your heart this year, and how do you plan to spotlight them through your reign?
When I became Empress, my heartfelt passion was to support the trans community. With the current administration frequently putting trans kids and families at risk by restricting access to proper medical care, I recognized that they were among the most vulnerable. For these reasons, we have selected PFLAG and Tyler Clementi as our beneficiaries for the 40th Annual Night of A Thousand Gowns. Both organizations have established excellent programs to aid the trans community and their families.
The Imperial Court carries decades of history and activism. How do you honor that legacy while still pushing forward into a new era of visibility and relevance? The imperial Court System’s history in activism runs deep. We honor the legacy of Jose Sarria or, as we called her, Mama Jose, the Grand Mere, Absolute Empress 1 de San Francisco and the Widow Norton. They were the founder of the Imperial Court System, a military veteran and one of the first openly gay men to run for office in San Francisco. He too stood up and said, “No More” and organized amongst his friends and held the first drag fundraising ball, in a time when drag was illegal. With the success of this effect, they were able to give funding to help organizations that were helping in the AIDS crisis. Funding community members that could not live on their own day to day, making sure they were housed, fed and loved. Now here we are fighting once again to get funding for programs that keep us alive, fighting against a government that wants to see us erased. The Imperial Court must stay visible, we must stay relevant, so we hold fast to Mama Jose’s mission of raising money, awareness and consciousness in support of organizations that positively affect the LGBTQIA+ community. We have made and will continue to make a difference.
Drag and royal pageantry have always been powerful political statements. In today’s climate, what role do you believe the Court plays in advocacy?
Drag has consistently served as a political statement, both in the present and in the past. The Imperial Court is a royal court with a unique twist. By taking our special talents, our royal pageantry, performance artistry…we use them to raise funds, supporting and advocating for various causes on behalf of others.
What has been the most unexpected or emotional moment for you so far in this journey?
It is remarkable that we find ourselves advocating for rights that were previously secured. There is an ongoing responsibility to uphold the principles of freedom, equality, acceptance and representation. Commitment to these ideals requires continued efforts to maintain the right to exist freely, to experience equality and to express one’s identity. As challenges arise, it remains essential to defend and preserve the symbols, literature and heritage that embody these values.
Community is at the heart of the Imperial Court. How can new supporters, allies and younger members of the LGBTQ+ community become involved?
Getting involved with the Imperial Court is straightforward and welcoming to all. The Court holds monthly meetings on the first Wednesday evening of each month at the Center located on 13th Street. These meetings provide an opportunity for new supporters, allies and younger members of the LGBTQ+ community to connect with the organization and learn about ongoing initiatives.
In addition to meetings, the Court organizes a monthly fundraiser at Boxers on 20th Street every second Saturday. This event not only helps raise funds for important causes but also offers a chance for members and supporters to gather, collaborate and strengthen the community. The Court is also actively engaged in supporting local businesses that, in turn, support its mission.
Anyone interested in joining or contributing can simply approach any member of the Imperial Court and express their desire to give back. By saying, “It’s time—I am ready to give/fight back for our community, I want to help, I am here, where do we start?” new members will find that there is always someone available to guide them. The Court is committed to offering a helping hand to all newcomers, ensuring a supportive and inclusive environment for those eager to make a difference.
If this reign were announced by Lady Whistledown herself, what do you think she would say about Sugar B. Real?
Dearest gentle readers, this author has a story of a legacy of leadership and advocacy. Empress Sugar B. Real stands out as a distinguished leader within the Imperial Court of New York, having held the title of Empress three times. Her reigns are marked by a series of groundbreaking achievements: She was the first Black Empress, the first cisgender Empress, the first Ally Empress, and only the second in the Court’s history to have reigned three times, Empress 30, 35 and regent Empress 39.
Sugar B. Real’s dedication to the Imperial Court System is unwavering. She truly believes in the Court’s mission to support, uplift and advocate for the most vulnerable members of the community. Empress Sugar brings joy and encouragement through song, a warm smile and genuine compassion.
Sugar B. Real’s philanthropic journey began in the 80s, when she visited a friend at St. Vincent’s Hospital. During that visit, she realized that even a simple touch could make a profound difference in a time when a little bit of love and compassion was so desperately needed. This experience inspired her to share that love and compassion with others first through God’s Love We Deliver and then through the Imperial Court. It is this very sense of love that continues to inspire her ongoing commitment to the community.
