About Us
Established in 1973, we are the oldest gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered organization in the state of Colorado. Many of the major cities in the western United States and Canada have a Court System in their community, and we are a chapter in The International Court System .
The Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire, or ICRME, has expanded during its existence. Over the years, we have broadened our definition of the community to read as the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community. We continue to hold functions for the enjoyment of this community, but most importantly, we have remained committed to raising money for charitable organizations and helping those in our community who are in need of assistance.
In 1965, a Court System originated in San Francisco for camp fun. From that beginning, camp titles such as Emperor and Empress were derived, . Those positions served as co-presidents of the organization. The Court System was designed to be a social and community service organization.
Elected Officers and Representatives of the communities were tasked to achieve the following goals:
- Further relationships with businesses and organizations within their communities
- Hold functions for the enjoyment of the gay and lesbian community
- Raise money for charitable organizations
- Help those in their communities who were in need of assistance
Throughout the years, the Court System has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars collectively to channel back into charitable, social, and political causes.
The Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire has been in existence since 1974, and we are one of the oldest gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered organizations in the state of Colorado. Many of the major cities in the western United States and Canada have a Court System in their community. In essence, we are a chapter in an international organization.
Coronation (a gala function held once yearly), is where voters from within the boundaries of our realm, which ranges from Castle Rock to the Wyoming Border, crown the newly elected Emperor and Empress. This is significant, as the community has a voice in selecting who they want to represent them in their organization’s fund-raising capacity. Our members also attend Coronations throughout the United States and Canada representing the Northern Colorado area in an attempt to further relations with outside communities.
The Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire, or ICRME, has expanded during its 42 years of existence. During this time we have broadened our definition of community to read as the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered community. We continue to hold functions for the enjoyment of this community. Most importantly we have remained committed to raising money for charitable organizations and help those in our communities who are in need of assistance.
In the last 12 years, we have given away close to a million dollars to charities and non-profit organizations in Colorado. A variety of shows are hosted each week with a designated beneficiary which will be the recipient of the proceeds collected. In addition to the shows that are held, many Court Members take part in other community based activities that call for the giving of time instead of money. Some examples are:
- Funding and handing out Thanksgiving meal baskets during the CAP Thanksgiving Food Drive
- Partnering with our local LGBTQ+ Sports teams
In 1994, The White Rose Scholarship Foundation was created. A program of the Rocky Mountain Court System Inc., this foundation was created to award scholarships to Northern Colorado residents, enabling them to continue their college education. The money is donated directly to the schools with the stipulation that the scholarship award is to be used for tuition or to purchase textbooks. The eligibility criteria are that the applicant must reside in Colorado and attend an accredited higher learning institution.
Our organization is open to anyone and everyone. Our members represent every aspect of society. A person’s gender, ethnicity/race, background, sexual orientation, or lifestyle has no bearing on acceptance within our organization. Everyone is welcome.
If you would like to become involved in the ICRME, our general membership meetings are on the fourth Tuesday of the month, 6:30 pm at the The Center on Colfax, 1301 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80218. Street Parking and Parking Lot Space is first come first served.
Watch for regular updates on this website or Facebook about our organization and upcoming events.