New York – Some of the state and city’s top Democratic leaders showed their support for embattled Harlem Congressman Charles Rangel Wednesday night, as the Harlem Democrat hosted his annual birthday fundraising gala.

Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand and Attorney General and Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Andrew Cuomo all came out to show their support.

Other notable guests included Mayor Michael Bloomberg, City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, and activist/entertainer Harry Belafonte.

Governor David Paterson was the master of ceremonies.

“You being here — not just here tonight, but being here over the very many many years, has given me the strength to do what has not been convenient; but to do what we know is right,” Rangel told supporters.

With the exception of a few upstate elected officials, any talk of a long list of political no-shows fell by the wayside inside the packed venue.

“His voice has always been a powerful voice for the forgotten people and the forgotten places of this nation. That’s why we’re here tonight to say Happy Birthday Congressman Charles Rangel,” Cuomo said.

Outside the event, a small group of demonstrators could be seen holding up signs denouncing corruption among lawmakers.

In an uncharacteristic moment, former Mayor David Dinkins turned and gave a heckler the finger.

One protester could be heard yelling “Rangel’s a crook,” but it’s not clear if that prompted the use of the obscene gesture.

Dinkins quickly turned around and headed into the fundraiser.

The bash comes a day after Rangel spent more than a half-hour on the floor of the House of Representatives speaking in his own defense, and daring his colleagues to kick him out over ethics charges.

The 80-year-old Harlem Democrat spoke without notes, and said he does not plan to resign despite facing a trial on 13 charges of wrongdoing. Rangel admitted he has made mistakes, but said he never crossed the line of corruption.

His speech defied the advice of his lawyers to keep quiet about the case.

No trial date has been scheduled, but the Ethics Committee has set its next meeting for September 13, the day before New York’s Democratic primary.

(Source: NY1)