The Imperial Court of Toronto (TICOT) was founded by Carlos Misseri in 1987 under the founding name the Trillium Monarchist Society (TMS). The original mandate of the organization was to promote ‘Friendship, Unity & Nonsense’ (F.U.N.) through holding entertaining fundraising events. Each year after, there has been an election in Toronto to fill the position of Emperor and/or Empress.

What is an Emperor or Empress?

They are residents of Ontario who have applied as candidates to become the figure heads of our fundraising & social organization for one year. They must complete a formal application, run an election campaign and be elected by a province wide vote. Those elected are crowned as Emperor & Empress at the annual Coronation Ball, which is the major fundraiser for the Society. Duties include organizing social events to raise funds for a charity of choice and acting as a Goodwill Ambassador for Toronto at International Court System functions across Canada and the United States.

What has TICOT Accomplished?

Since its inception in 1987, under the leadership of now 32 elected Monarchs, TICOT has entertained thousands, held many successful events and raised money for a number of local charities - Casey House, The Toronto PWA Foundation, AIDS Committee of Toronto, AIDS Tijuana, The Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives, the Toronto Metropolitan Police (1st Bikes), Sick Children’s Hospital, and Gilda's Club - to name a few. It is estimated that during our 23 years in operation, we've donated over $720,000 to local charities. We established the Emperor I Sergio Apolloni Memorial Scholarship in 1993, which is now awarded to a student in the Sexual Diversty Studies program at the University of Toronto, annually. We offer a social outlet through a series of annual & weekly events (Magical Makeover, Queen Mum, Miss Trillium Pageant & the annual Coronation Ball). You are encouraged to join us by attending and participating in our efforts to raise funds in our community.

Can Anyone Join?

Yes! You are welcome to join us at our events, which continue to promote ‘Friendship, Unity & Nonsense’ (F.U.N.) in Toronto. Membership in not required. We encourage you to become a Member of the Society for participation at a deeper level. In any case, we look forward to meeting you.