A special report released last week by Al Jazeera America, explored issued faced by people both LGBT and Muslim in America.

An episode of America Tonight aired last week saw reporter Edward Wyckoff Williams speak to LGBT Muslims on their lives in the US, as well as struggles to be accepted.

While some had been forced to abandon their faith after struggles as they came from countries where being LGBT is illegal, others found a way to strike a balance, and hold on to their religion.

One imam featured in the programme urged parents to love and care for their children, and to not expel them from their families.

GLAAD’s Omar Sharif Jr. commented on the program: “As someone from a Muslim family, I’m heartened to see a nuanced report that listens to the stories of LGBT Muslims. When I came out in 2012, I also faced struggles with family, religion, race, and sexual orientation. I applaud the other brave LGBT Muslims who shared their lives with Al Jazeera America and with all of us.”

Leading LGBT rights organisation GLAAD has urged the topic to be more widely explored.

The full report is available to view below.

Edward Wyckoff Williams reports “Gay and Muslim in America” – Al Jazeera from Edward Wyckoff Williams on Vimeo.