A state committee in Washington has reached a consensus on the location for a new memorial dedicated to Cal Anderson, a pioneering legislator known for his advocacy for gay rights. This decision comes after significant controversy followed the removal of an existing memorial earlier this year.
On Monday, the State Capitol Committee unanimously voted to place the new tribute on land east of the Sunken Garden. The design would encompass features that honor Anderson’s reflective nature and collaborative spirit, including a semi-circular retaining wall, a seating area for contemplation, and a 4-foot-tall polished granite boulder representing his legacy. The memorial is intended to blend seamlessly with the landscaping and will not exceed the height of nearby hedges.
Despite the challenges faced in determining a location, committee members expressed relief and positivity regarding the progress. Randy Bolerjack, deputy secretary of state and a committee member, emphasized the importance of the memorial serving as a beacon of hope and kindness, indicative of Anderson’s character.
Cal Anderson made history as Washington’s first openly gay legislator, serving in the House from 1987 and later in the Senate. His advocacy was instrumental in advancing civil rights protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in the state, a battle that culminated in significant legislation in 2006.
The original memorial was established in 1996, but was removed in August 2023 amid the removal of a nearby cherry tree. The decision to restore the memorial was met with strong sentiments from the community and lawmakers, including Lt. Gov. Denny Heck and Gov. Jay Inslee, who both had ties to Anderson.
Following the location decision, HBB Landscape Architecture in Seattle has been engaged to create the design, with initial renderings already impressing committee members. The project is estimated to cost around $312,000 and is anticipated to take six months for construction once finalized designs are approved and go to bid.
This initiative reflects a commitment to honoring past leaders whose contributions have had a lasting impact on society. It signifies not only remembrance but also a dedication to ongoing advocacy for equality, serving as a hopeful reminder for future generations.
In summary, the committee’s unanimous decision to establish a new memorial for Cal Anderson symbolizes a step toward healing and recognition of his invaluable contributions to civil rights and LGBTQ+ advocacy in Washington State.