With the start of the 2008 Convention just one month away, two Colorado tribes performed a Native American blessing at the Pepsi Center yesterday. Paying homage to the region’s rich Native American heritage, the Convention team was honored to take part in the ceremony led by members of the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Indian tribes.

While the Convention seeks to engage people across the nation, it’s also important to step back and take in the unique setting of this year’s Convention -- Denver, Colorado. Although this Convention will prove to be historic for many reasons, here’s one more to add to the list – it’s been 100 years since Colorado last hosted a Democratic Convention.

That being said, taking part in this Native American blessing gave everyone the opportunity to take a deep breath, reflect on the region’s great traditions, and gear up for the 30-day sprint that lies ahead. The members of the tribes also spoke to the values of the Democratic Party and praised its commitment to being a voice for all Americans. 

Reciting chants and prayers, the leaders of the Native American blessing burned sage as they moved around and through the Pepsi Center.  As drums played in the background, they used feathers to spread the smoke around the place of blessing. Take a look at some photos from yesterday’s event: