Rally to demand due process for Rep. John Conyers after sexual harassment accusations

Political, religious leaders to speak

DETROIT – A rally with leaders, ministers and activists is planned Monday in Detroit to call for due process for Rep. John Conyers after sexual harassment allegations against him emerged.

Rep. Sherry Gay-Dagnogo (D-Detroit), Pastor Charles G. Adams, Pastor Christian Adams, the Rev. Wendell Anthony, the Rev. Charles Williams, the National Action Network, a delegation of 13th Congressional District Leaders and others will be at the event.

"I think an ethics investigation will vindicate him," said Charles Williams, with Solomon Baptist Church.

The longest-serving congressman has denied accusations he sexually harassed former female aides, but calls for his resignation have been growing.

Last week, minority leader Nancy Pelosi said Conyers should step down. Since then, other prominent Democrats have urged the same.

Those who support Conyers said there's a double standard for African American leaders, citing the ongoing sexual misconduct accusations facing Al Franken.

"No one is going after the senator, so why, all of a sudden, are they going after John Conyers?" Williams said. "We are saying, 'Hell no.' We want him to run for as long as his health allows."

The rally is scheduled for 11 a.m. Monday at Hartford Memorial Baptist Church at 18700 James Couzens Freeway.


About the Authors:

Priya joined WDIV-Local 4 in 2013 as a reporter and fill-in anchor. Education: B.A. in Communications/Post Grad in Advanced Journalism