Utah Senate opens 2002 session with invocation, Bill of Rights reading and MLK commemoration

The Utah State Senate opened its 2002 organizational session with ceremonial observances, formal certification of membership and remarks on civic duties.

Senate President Mansell called the chamber to order and invited Elder Perry to offer the invocation. Elder Perry prayed for wisdom and ‘‘that they may have wisdom and judgment in the decisions that are made here,’’ concluding, “May thy blessings be on this body” and “Amen.” The assembly then recited the Pledge of Allegiance and listened to the Bill of Rights read aloud as part of a special presentation required by legislation passed the previous year.

Terrace Berry and student performers led the chamber in a rendition of the national anthem, and the Brighton High School Madrigals were introduced to perform later in the session. A senator moved that the invocation, presentation of colors, the pledge and the musical performances be formally thanked and that those remarks be spread upon the Senate journal; the motion passed on a voice vote.

Later in the morning the Senate resolved into a committee of the whole for a presentation by the Martin Luther King Jr. Human Rights Commission. Reverend Francis Davis, the commission’s keynote speaker, cited Dr. King’s ‘‘drum major’’ remarks and urged lawmakers to pursue community, service and legal, political and social changes to reduce discrimination. ‘‘If you want to be great, it depends upon the service that you render,’’ Davis said, asking senators to be ‘‘the voice for the voiceless.’’ The commission invited members to a commemorative luncheon and further engagement.

The ceremonial and commemorative portions concluded with the Senate returning to formal business. The body recessed until 2 p.m. for continuation of its organizational agenda.