A state committee has reached a decision on the location for a new memorial honoring Cal Anderson, a pioneering lawmaker and Washington’s first openly gay legislator. This decision comes several months after the original memorial was removed, sparking significant public outcry.
On Monday, the State Capitol Committee unanimously approved the placement of the new memorial on a site east of the Sunken Garden on the Capitol grounds. The proposed design emphasizes Anderson’s reflective and collaborative spirit, featuring a semi-circular retaining wall that includes a seating area for meditation, alongside a polished granite boulder standing four feet tall, symbolizing his influential role in advancing civil rights in Washington. The memorial is designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, maintaining a height that won’t surpass the existing hedges and gardens.
While the committee still needs to approve the final design and secure funding for the estimated $312,000 project cost from the Legislature, this decision marks a significant step forward, particularly in light of the controversies surrounding the earlier removal of the memorial. Randy Bolerjack, the deputy secretary of state and a committee member, expressed satisfaction with the resolution, noting the thoughtful nature of the new plan and highlighting Anderson’s legacy of hope and kindness.
Cal Anderson, who served in the House beginning in 1987 before transitioning to the Senate in 1994, was instrumental in advocating for gay rights in Washington. Despite his battle with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma—a complication of AIDS that ultimately led to his passing in 1995—his efforts contributed to the eventual enactment of laws safeguarding civil rights for the LGBTQ+ community. The original memorial, established in 1996, was removed earlier this year, igniting strong condemnation from political leaders, including Lt. Gov. Denny Heck, who described the act as a “desecration.”
Moving forward, state lawmakers have already allocated $75,000 for the pre-design phase, and HBB Landscape Architecture from Seattle has been selected to spearhead the project. On Monday, Aaron Luoma from the firm showcased conceptual sketches that impressed committee members, including Heck, who remarked on their visual impact. The final design process is expected to take about eight months, followed by a six-month construction timeline.
This initiative not only provides a fitting tribute to Cal Anderson but also serves as a hopeful reminder of progress in civil rights advocacy. It symbolizes the ongoing commitment to honor those who have contributed to the fight for equality and justice in Washington State.