Members of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus Demand Due Process for Rep. Conyers

LANSING — Members of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus (MLBC) joined with the scores of religious, community and social justice advocates who demanded due process for Congressman John Conyers, and participated in the rally of support held at 11 a.m. today at the Hartford Memorial Baptist Church, 18700 James Couzens Freeway in Detroit, Michigan.

“Our national and state constitutions demand due process when one is faced with accusations of a criminal nature,” said state Rep. Sheldon Neeley (D-Flint), MLBC chairman. “It is appalling that there have been calls for Congressman Conyers’ resignation, when he has not been afforded his basic due process rights.”

“All the facts have yet to be investigated, but there have been demands by newspapers and public officials for Congressman Conyers to resign,” Rep. Neeley continued. “Rather than rush to judgment, we must wait until the ethics investigation is completed, and the panel submits a report based on a complete and thorough review.”

State Rep. Leslie Love (D-Detroit), MLBC 2nd vice chair, said “Sexual harassment and assault is a serious matter, and when it allegedly occurs in the workplace, it is imperative that it is investigated swiftly and handled appropriately.”

Ms. Love, who also holds a master’s degree in human resource management, added “And while we may not right all the wrongs of the past, we must be deliberate and diligent in our commitment to creating safe work environments and eliminating a culture that shames the victims.”

MLBC members who participated in today’s rally included state Reps. Leslie Love (D-Detroit), Sherry Gay-Dagnogo (D-Detroit), Fred Durhal III (D-Detroit) and LaTanya Garrett (D-Detroit).

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