Established in 1961, The Academy of Washington, Inc. (also known as "the Academy") is one of the oldest organizations of its kind in the country. Its membership includes drag queens, drag kings, male and female impersonators in the Washington, DC metropolitan area who enjoy entertaining and supporting each other.

But the Academy is not just a social organization, it is a highly respected member of the community. The Academy and its members are active in many civic and volunteer organizations. The Washington Academy is on the board of Brother Help Thyself (BHT), involved with the Rainbow History Project, and PETS-DC. In addition to these organizations, Academy members are also associated with ASGRA, the Centaur Motorcycle Club, and other community organizations.

During the years, every person associated with the Academy has experienced the far-reaching social gratification of our group. Each person has had their moments of glory, their share of applause and social recognition. We honor each other for our contributions to theatre, make-up, design, and the gay community in general. We welcome individuality and foster self-expression in all forms. The Academy allows us to occasionally make-believe and continues to provide each of us with a touch of glamour and elegance that many would not otherwise experience.