Silverton Weighs Bronze Statue Honoring Nation's First Openly Transgender Mayor

Mary DeSantis, left, and sculptor Marty Eichinger present a clay model and proposal for a bronze statue honoring Stu Rasmussen, the nation's first openly transgender mayor, during a Silverton City Council work session in Silverton, Ore.

SILVERTON, Ore. — A nonprofit group urged Silverton city leaders to accept a life-size bronze statue honoring Stu Rasmussen, the nation's first openly transgender mayor, during a council work session, emphasizing his transformative role in the community.

The group, Silverton for Stu, presented plans for the memorial, which would depict Rasmussen seated in a chair, allowing visitors to take selfies beside it. Preferred location is the landing at City Hall's entrance, with an alternative in an adjacent shaded park area.

Mary DeSantis, the nonprofit's president and a Silverton resident, said the project aims to celebrate Rasmussen's legacy and Silverton's inclusive spirit. She noted the group has raised more than $30,000 toward an estimated $150,000 cost, including installation, and hopes for city assistance to reduce expenses.

DeSantis, who moved to Silverton in October 2021 inspired by a podcast about Rasmussen, described him as a figure who put the town "on the map" for acceptance. "By saying yes to this gift ... Silverton can now proclaim that we will, in perpetuity, be a town that embraces the dignity of all people," she said.

In this Silverton City Council work session, members of the nonprofit "Silverton for Stu" present their proposal for a life-size bronze statue honoring Stu Rasmussen, America's first openly transgender mayor. Watch full video here. 

Barb Dahlum, a longtime friend and former city councilor, recounted Rasmussen's contributions since the 1970s, including managing the Palace Theater and revitalizing downtown amid economic decline. She shared stories of his service, such as developing the Silver Falls Tour Route and waiving development fees to spur growth. Dahlum read a letter from a resident who credited Rasmussen with providing hope as a deaf and queer youth.

Sculptor Martin Eichinger, from Portland, displayed a clay sketch of Rasmussen's face and emphasized the statue's symbolic value. He called Rasmussen "transformative" for Silverton, noting his own history with the town, including an unsuccessful bid to buy a school building around 2000. Eichinger urged a quick decision on location to proceed with design.

Rasmussen, who served multiple terms as mayor and councilor, died in 2021. He was known for his public transition and advocacy, drawing national attention.

Councilors expressed mixed support for the proposal. Mayor Jason Freilinger favored the project and the City Hall site but sought consensus among his colleagues. Councilor April Newton voiced enthusiasm, citing Rasmussen's impact on tourism and inclusivity. Councilor Kyle Palmer described himself as "mildly supportive," while admitting that he and Stu had a complicated relationship. Others, including Councilors Elvi Sutton and Marie Traeger, called for establishing a public art policy first to ensure fairness and avoid politicization.

Concerns included maintenance, insurance and potential vandalism. The group plans to provide initial maintenance funds, with the city assuming long-term responsibility. DeSantis said statues are easier to maintain than murals due to protective wax coatings.

City Manager Corey Misley suggested fleshing out details like budget, timeline and insurance, drawing from sample art policies. He proposed continuing discussions Sept. 17, with legal counsel present.

The session did not include a vote, as it was a work session. Public testimony was scheduled afterward.