Let’s remember when Cal Anderson became Washington’s first openly-gay legislator, on this day in 1987 (November 9)
This is such an important day in WA history.
Per David Wilma of HistoryLink:
On November 9, 1987, Democrat Calvin B. “Cal” Anderson (1948–1995) becomes Washington state’s first openly gay legislator when the King County Council appoints him to a vacant seat in the House of Representatives from Seattle’s 43rd District. Anderson will go on to win election to the House from the 43rd District. In 1994, he will win election to the Washington State Senate.
Anderson was a Democratic activist and an aide to Seattle City Council Member George Benson and to Mayor Charles Royer. He was a decorated combat veteran of the U.S. Army in Vietnam and called himself, “a Democrat who happens to be gay.” In the legislature Anderson backed gay rights legislation and battled initiatives that would discriminate against gays. He also worked for campaign finance reform, easier voter registration, and open access to government documents.
Fun fact: When Anderson won reelection in 1988, future disgraced-mayor Ed Murray was Anderson’s campaign manager.
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