Dear Friends of the United Court of the Pikes Peak Empire,
Many of you may already know me, but allow me to introduce myself to those who do not. My name is Joseph Shelton, and I am an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in El Paso County. I am also running to be Emperor 49 of the United Court of the Pikes Peak Empire (UCPPE). As I approach my 28th birthday in just 11 days, I reflect on the experiences that have shaped me and my commitment to our community.
Born and raised in Colorado Springs, aside from a few years when my father’s service in the U.S. Army took us elsewhere, I have called this city home for nearly 25 years. Growing up, I wasn’t given the freedom to explore my identity. My father, who did not support the LGBTQ+ community, tried to shield me from anything he believed might influence me. For example, I wasn’t allowed to watch Spongebob because it might “turn me gay.” We all know how that turned out!
As I grew older, I began to discover more about myself. Around 2009, I started to explore my bisexual identity, which I eventually embraced and came out to friends in 2013 and to my family in 2014. In 2018, I came out as gay. While some family members accepted me, others did not. To fill the void of trying to find myself, I turned to community service, volunteering for groups that support those who are often marginalized. In 2018, I started volunteering with Inside Out Youth Services, and by 2019, I became a staff member. Inside Out played a crucial role in my personal growth, helping me become who I am today. It was through Inside Out that I first got involved with UCPPE.
My first event with UCPPE was the Black and White Ball in 2019. At the time, I knew little about the organization, only that they were donating to Inside Out, and I needed to accept a check on their behalf. Although I entered the event with limited knowledge of the court, I left feeling the love and sense of community that UCPPE fosters. I became a member soon after and have been a part of this incredible organization ever since.
Since joining, I have had the honor of holding several titles. In 2019, I received the lifetime title award, The Aurora Borealis Award of Excellence, Passion, and Wisdom, from Empress 43 Anka Shayne. I served as Duke 44 and Grand Marquis 45 in Emperor 44/45 Nic Grezecka’s line. I was also asked by Emperor 44/45 Nic and Empress 44/45 Autumn Quinn to serve as Corresponding Secretary to the Board of Advisors. I have had the privilege of serving as the Board President, and I currently serve as the Public Relations Chair. Everything I have done has been in service to the court and our community.
Now, I am running to be Emperor 49, and you might wonder why. The answer lies in UCPPE—not just our acronym but also what it stands for to me: Unification, Community, Perseverance, Passion, and Everyone.
Our court has a strong history of building resilience and advancing change over the past 48 years. As we approach our 50th anniversary, I envision an organization that honors our past, thrives in the present, and looks toward a brighter future. I am running for Emperor 49 to ensure our organization remains strong, vibrant, and on a path to continued success.
I know I have shared quite a bit, so I will conclude with this: Our organization is only as strong as those who came before us, those who stand with us now, and those we welcome into our community in the future. I would greatly appreciate any support you can offer—whether it’s advice, a performance, or anything else. Your support not only guides me but also helps build a prosperous future for all of us.
If you’d like to connect or learn more, please feel free to reach out. You can email, text, or call me at 719-290-0440 or find me on social media under Joseph Shelton. You can also visit my website at ElectJosephShelton.com. If you haven’t heard yet, elections will take place on October 27, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM MST, in person at Stir Coffee and Cocktails, 2330 N Wahsatch Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80907, and online. As the election approaches, I will share more information on virtual voting.
Thank you for your time and for helping me build a stronger community.
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