Excerpt:
Gay and lesbian Muslims are holding a two-day conference in Detroit this weekend featuring a gay Muslim leader who grew up in Detroit.
Called the "Queer Muslim Gathering," the event is hosted by Kick, an African-American gay and lesbian group based in Detroit, and Muslims for Progressive Values.
"We feel it is important for LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered) Muslims to be included as equals into the straight Muslim society," said Imam Daayiee Abdullah of Washington, D.C., director of LGBT outreach with Muslims for Progressive Values, based in Los Angeles.