The intersection of LGBTQIA and Muslim identities has long been marked by discrimination and exclusion. However, the U.S. Muslim community has recently begun to shift towards becoming more LGBTQIA -supportive. According to the Pew Research Center's 2020 report, 42 percent of U.S. Muslims strongly support same-sex marriage, and a significant 60 percent of Muslim millennials believe that society should accept homosexuality. While these statistics indicate a positive trend in social attitudes, it's essential to recognize that this acceptance is not uniformly reflected in all aspects of religious life. Despite the broader acceptance within the community, many mosques remain unwelcoming spaces for LGBTQIA individuals.

To bridge this gap, "Muslims for Progressive Values" (MPV) has established eight Unity Mosques across North America, offering a sanctuary where LGBTQ Muslims can worship without fear of judgment or exclusion. These spaces are crucial in fostering a sense of belonging and providing a religious-spiritual reference point for those who often feel marginalized within their faith........

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