A state committee has reached a consensus on the placement of a new memorial dedicated to Cal Anderson, a groundbreaking lawmaker and Washington’s first openly gay legislator. The decision comes in the wake of the controversial removal of Anderson’s original tribute, which sparked significant public outcry.
The State Capitol Committee unanimously approved the memorial’s location on a section of land east of the Sunken Garden. The proposed design aims to encapsulate Anderson’s contemplative nature and activist spirit. It will feature a semi-circular retaining wall and a seating area designed for meditation, alongside a 4-foot-tall polished granite boulder that symbolizes his contributions to the state’s future. The memorial is intended to blend seamlessly into the landscape, matching the height of the surrounding hedges.
This milestone represents a significant step forward, following the pain associated with the previous memorial’s removal. Randy Bolerjack, deputy secretary of state and a committee member, expressed satisfaction with this resolution, highlighting Anderson’s legacy of kindness and hopefulness. He believes the memorial will serve as a lasting reminder for future state leaders.
Cal Anderson’s political career began in 1987 when he was appointed to the House, and he later won a Senate seat in 1994. He was a progressive voice in the legislature, fighting tirelessly for civil rights protections for the LGBTQ+ community, though it took until 2006 for a law to be enacted to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
The original memorial, erected in 1996, was removed in August 2023 due to maintenance that affected the surrounding area, leading to swift condemnation from officials, including Lt. Gov. Denny Heck and Gov. Jay Inslee. In response to the community’s distress, the state allocated $75,000 for memorial redesign, and HBB Landscape Architecture was tasked with the project.
During a recent presentation, Aaron Luoma, a principal at HBB, shared design sketches that thrilled committee members and illustrated a vibrant vision for the new memorial. The final design process is expected to take around eight months, with projected construction costs around $312,000 and an estimated six-month build time.
This renewed commitment to honor Cal Anderson’s legacy showcases the state’s dedication to recognizing and celebrating the contributions of those who have fought for equality and justice. The community can look forward to a memorial that not only pays tribute to a remarkable individual but also offers a space for reflection and inspiration for generations to come.