Democrats open convention with a statement of faith

DENVER — Democrats sought to send the message Sunday that the values vote will not go uncontested this year by formally opening their convention with an interfaith gathering.

“Many have had much to say about efforts to bring faith to the Democratic Party,” said the Rev. Leah Daughtry, CEO of the convention. “We don’t need to bring faith to the party, faith is already here.”

{mosads}The gathering was the first official event of the convention. It kicked off with a Gospel choir, followed by Indian drums.

Outside the Colorado Convention Center, where the gathering was held, demonstrators protested the party’s abortion rights position with graphic signs.

Inside, there were readings of the Bible, Torah and Koran, and discussion of the environment, poverty and Iraq, as well as abortion.

“Many loudly proclaim their advocacy for the unborn,” said the Rev. Charles E. Blake, presiding bishop of the Church of God in Christ. “But they refuse to acknowledge their responsibility and the responsibility of our nation for those who have already been born.”

Democratic Party Chairman Howard Dean sat in the front row, near House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.).