A state committee in Washington has reached a significant decision regarding the placement of a new memorial for Cal Anderson, the state’s first openly gay legislator and a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. This resolution comes on the heels of the contentious removal of the original memorial earlier this year.
On Monday, the State Capitol Committee unanimously approved a site for the new memorial, which will be located on a site east of the Sunken Garden within the Capitol’s grounds. The memorial is designed to embody Anderson’s reflective character and activism, featuring elements such as a semi-circular retaining wall with seating for meditation, as well as a polished granite boulder that represents his contribution to shaping Washington’s future. The landscaping will be thoughtfully done to ensure the structure remains in harmony with the surrounding gardens.
Although the committee’s approval marks a significant advance, there are still steps left to complete the project. The design concept must receive final approval, and funding for the estimated cost of $312,000 is required from the Legislature.
Randy Bolerjack, deputy secretary of state and a member of the committee, expressed his satisfaction with how the situation has been handled, stating that it brings closure to a painful process. He emphasized that the memorial will serve as a lasting reminder of Anderson’s hopefulness and kindness, inspiring future generations of leaders.
Cal Anderson started his political career in 1987 and achieved substantial milestones in civil rights, including efforts to expand protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Tragically, he passed away from complications related to AIDS in 1995.
The need for a new memorial arose after the state removed the previous one in August 2023 while conducting maintenance on the nearby cherry tree. This action prompted backlash from several officials, including Lt. Gov. Denny Heck, who criticized it as a misguided decision.
With $75,000 already allocated for the initial design phases and HBB Landscape Architecture selected for the task, the momentum for this project is building. The design process is set to take about eight months, followed by a projected six-month construction phase.
This initiative not only honors the legacy of Cal Anderson but also reflects a collective commitment to acknowledging LGBTQ+ history and ensuring that the state government continues to promote equality and civil rights for all its citizens. The future memorial promises to be a beautiful space for reflection and remembrance while fostering hope in the ongoing quest for justice and equality.