In 2024, Washington State passed legislation to preserve historical records and artifacts from Lakeland Village, a state-operated facility that has served people with intellectual and developmental disabilities for more than a century. The law required the development of a formal preservation plan to identify, protect, and make accessible thousands of documents, photographs, and other materials discovered on-site. These records include medical files, personal correspondence, and artifacts that document daily life and institutional practices over decades.  

The effort reflects a growing recognition that disability history—particularly the history of institutionalization—has often been overlooked or lost. The records offer insight into both the lived experiences of residents and the systems that shaped their lives, including periods marked by isolation, control, and evolving standards of care. At the same time, the work has raised complex questions about privacy, consent, and how to responsibly preserve sensitive information. While the legislation marks an important step toward acknowledging and learning from the past, it also highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing historical transparency with respect for individuals and families whose stories are contained in these records.