We take a look at some of the heroes and villains of the gay world.  This week we've got someone rather regal. So get n your knees and bow down to the self-proclaimed Emperor of the Lesbian and Gay Kingdom of the Coral Sea Islands deserves our allegiance. Okay, so it isn't difficult but our King Dale a hero or villain?

Who?
Dale R. or Emperor Dale Parker Anderson of the Lesbian and Gay Kingdom of the Coral Sea Islands

Not to be confused with…
Queen Victoria

Best remembered for…
Acquiring an uninhabited series of small islands in the Coral Sea, off the north eastern coast of Australia, and declaring it the world's first independent gay and lesbian crown state. Although it sits in a million square kilometres of sea, the total land mass is not more than three square kilometres, its capital is called Heaven, the Kingdom's national anthem is I Am What I Am and, yes, there is a rainbow flag flying on it. All gay and lesbian people are invited to become citizens.

What's he up to now?
The Gay Kingdom may have started off as a bit of a joke, but Emperor Dale is serious about using it to challenge Australia's resistance to granting its gay and lesbian citizens equal rights, and addressing religious intolerance and homophobic violence.

Homo factor:
Couldn't be higher.

Anything else we should know?
His Imperial Majesty the Emperor Dale is the 19 X grandson of King Edward II of England and hence is distantly related to all the major Royal houses of Europe. Quiet and shy, he enjoys gardening, reading, swimming and spending peaceful times at home. His Majesty came to throne at age 38, when the Coral Sea Islands secession from Australia was proclaimed in June 2004. Upon hearing that his role of administrator would be converted to that of an Emperor of the world’s newest nation his majesty delivered the following speech: "Almighty God has chosen a task that for me is great and difficult. I hope to God that he will grant me the grace and strength to fulfil it. I wish to reign true to the oath I now take and in the spirit of God and the Heavenly Kingdom and the angels who will guide me. The welfare of my beloved Gay and Lesbian people and the greatness of mankind will constitute my main endeavours."

Hero or villain?
Hero! Hero! Hero!

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