A state committee has made significant progress by selecting a location for a new memorial dedicated to Cal Anderson, a groundbreaking lawmaker and Washington’s first openly gay legislator. This decision comes months after the abrupt removal of his previous memorial sparked public outcry.
The State Capitol Committee unanimously approved a site for the memorial, which will be located on a green space east of the Sunken Garden. The planned memorial will embody Anderson’s thoughtful nature and passion for activism. It includes a semi-circular retaining wall with a meditation seating area, and a 4-foot-tall polished granite boulder symbolizing his impact on the state. The design aims for a harmonious integration with the surroundings, featuring landscape elements that will not exceed the height of nearby hedges.
Committee member Randy Bolerjack expressed relief that the committee has addressed past grievances and created a design that reflects the values Anderson stood for. He emphasized that the memorial will remind visitors of the hopefulness and kindness Anderson exhibited throughout his life. Anderson, who served in the legislature from 1987 until his passing in 1995, was a pivotal figure in advocating for gay rights in Washington. His efforts laid the groundwork for the eventual passage of a law banning discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in 2006.
The original memorial was removed in August 2023, which ignited controversy. Officials, including Lt. Gov. Denny Heck and Gov. Jay Inslee, deemed the removal shameful and insisted on the restoration of Anderson’s tribute. The state has allocated $75,000 for the design phase, with HBB Landscape Architecture leading the project.
On Monday, Aaron Luoma from the design team showcased initial sketches, which impressed the committee. Final designs are expected to take eight months, followed by a six-month construction phase with an estimated budget of $312,000.
This new memorial marks not only a tribute to Cal Anderson but also underscores Washington’s commitment to honoring diversity and promoting inclusivity in its legislative history. It serves as a hopeful reminder of the progress made and the ongoing journey toward equality for all.