The Democratic National Convention begins tomorrow here in Denver.  For the most part the official business will take inside the Pepsi Center , however there are other events occurring around the venue which will also make some news.

Today was the first day which I attended to photograph, and consisted of a rally by the group Recreate ’68 at the State Capitol followed by a march to the Pepsi Center.  The following are images from the events during today.

Ward Churchill waits for his opportunity to speak at the State Capitol rally

Cindy Sheehan take questions from the media at the State Capitol during the rally

A Recreate ’68 Security Member stands on the steps as Ward Churchill speaks

Green Party Candidate Cynthia McKinney listens to her running mate Rosa Clemente speak at the rally

Protesters dawn masks to show the faceless side

The march then departed the State Capitol towards the Pepsi Center to carry on their protest.  Early on along the route a corner had a group of people in support of the troops.  With a heavy police presence this did not lead to any issues.

Leading the march was Ron Kovic , who is best known as the author of Born on the Fourth of July.

Many others took part in the march as well.

Once at the Pepsi Center things did get tense for a few moments.

Upon heading back, there was another rally on the 16th Street Mall by the group Codepink.

During the day there were other events throughout Denver, however I was unable to be all around town.  Look for additional images in the upcoming days for other events outside the Pepsi Center.