Leaders celebrate the life and contributions of Cal Anderson

Portrait of local civil rights champion dedicated at Sound Transit site

Sound Transit joined state, city and Capitol Hill neighborhood leaders today to dedicate a new mural celebrating the life and accomplishments of Cal Anderson at the Seattle park that bears his name.

Sound Transit commissioned the portrait by local artist Kelly Lyles as part of the ongoing public art program around the Capitol Hill light rail station construction site. The 11' x 8' portrait will remain on the red construction wall facing the park throughout construction.

"Cal Anderson was a passionate and tireless public servant who championed civil rights for gays and lesbians," said State Sen. Ed Murray, D-43rd District. "His work in the Legislature paved the way for passage of the 2006 Civil Rights Law, which will be his enduring legacy and gift to the LGBT community."

Anderson died in 1995 and had served in the State Legislature representing Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood since 1987. Prior to that he worked as an aide to Seattle City Councilmember George Benson and Mayor Charles Royer. A Seattle native, Anderson was also a decorated Vietnam War veteran who earned two Bronze Stars and four Army Commendation medals.

"Cal Anderson was a trailblazer and a community icon," said Sound Transit Board member and King County Executive Dow Constantine. "He lived here and represented the people of Capitol Hill in the Legislature, and this portrait will remind us of his years of service to the community."

Sound Transit partnered with the Capitol Hill Chamber of Commerce, Cal Anderson Park Alliance, and Broadway Business Improvement Area on the portrait dedication.

"It's important for future generations to remember and appreciate the work people like Cal Anderson have done to make all of our lives better," said Capitol Hill Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Michael Wells.