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International Drag Queens & Friends (IDQ&F) was founded by Emerald Gibson (also known as Amanda-Lynn) with a vision to preserve the rich and diverse history of drag performers across Canada, the United States, and around the world. The organization aims to celebrate and uplift the positive contributions of female impersonators and illusion artists globally.

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Our story began on April 24, 2000, when Amanda-Lynn launched a Yahoo Group with a few passionate friends who shared a desire to promote and protect the legacy of drag artistry—a form of expression that has long inspired creativity, advocacy, and community.

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In 2001, the creation of Canadian Drag Queens & Friends (CDQ&F) marked the next chapter. With this came the introduction of our signature title system, offering members a platform to support and raise funds for charities of their choice. Each year, candidates apply for various titles, undergo a selection and vetting process, campaign, and are ultimately elected by community vote.

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Our current titles include:

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• Mr., Ms., Miss, Mx., International Pride ©™

• Mr., Ms., Miss, Mx., Rainbow Pride of Canada ©™

• Mr., Ms., Miss, Mx., Galactic Plus International ©™

• Mr., Ms., Miss, Mx., International Ambassador ©™

• Mr., Ms., Miss, Mx., Charity Bear ©™

• International Community Champion Bear ©™

 

As Yahoo Groups came to an end, Amanda seamlessly transitioned the community to Facebook, which sparked a new wave of engagement, outreach, and education. The group flourished—despite a few imitators—by staying true to its purpose and growing steadily with members seeking guidance, mentorship, and community within the world of drag.

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In 2023, IDQ&F established an annual flagship event titled “Celebration”. This event honors the achievements of our titleholders, provides an opportunity to present donations to their chosen charities, and officially crowns the newly elected titleholders for the year ahead. This event changes cities/countries based on where the title holders may reside and agree upon with the guidance of the IDQ&F Executive Committee.

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