A state committee has reached a decision regarding the placement of a new memorial honoring Cal Anderson, a pioneering lawmaker and Washington’s first openly gay legislator. The memorial will be situated on a piece of land east of the Sunken Garden on the Capitol campus, following the controversial removal of a previous tribute that sparked significant public debate.
During a recent meeting, the State Capitol Committee unanimously approved the memorial’s location. The design promises to embody Anderson’s reflective nature, collaborative spirit, and role in advancing civil rights. Features planned for the site include a semi-circular retaining wall, a seating area for meditation, and a symbolic 4-foot-tall polished granite boulder, all set within a landscaped environment that harmonizes with the surrounding gardens.
While the committee’s approval marks a significant progress, the design concept still requires final approval, and the state legislature will need to allocate funding for the estimated $312,000 project cost. Committee member Randy Bolerjack expressed relief at the resolution of past grievances, emphasizing the hopefulness and kindness reflected in Anderson’s legacy. He believes the memorial will serve as an enduring reminder of those qualities for future generations.
Cal Anderson, who served in the House starting in 1987 before transitioning to the Senate in 1994, was a dedicated advocate for gay rights. His efforts laid groundwork that only led to significant legal protections in 2006, banning discrimination based on sexual orientation. Anderson, a Vietnam veteran, faced his own health challenges, passing away in 1995 due to complications from AIDS.
The original memorial, erected in 1996, was removed in August 2023 during tree maintenance, igniting protests from several state officials, including Lt. Gov. Denny Heck, who described the act as a desecration. Following public outcry, Governor Jay Inslee ordered the restoration of Anderson’s memorial, stressing its importance to the community.
As part of the planning process, HBB Landscape Architecture has been engaged to design the memorial, with sketches presented to the State Capitol Committee receiving enthusiastic praise from committee members. The finalization of designs is anticipated to take around eight months, with construction expected to last about six months thereafter.
This initiative not only honors Cal Anderson’s significant contributions to civil rights but also signifies a commitment to remembering and celebrating the diversity that shapes Washington State’s history. The memorial stands as a hopeful symbol for future generations, fostering a community of acceptance and understanding.