Chicago Conference Showcases Diversity, Patriotism Of Muslim Americans

(CBS) -- Happening this weekend: what's believed to be the largest gathering of Muslims in North America.

It's a yearly religious event right here in our area. As CBS 2's Lauren Victory reports, some participants are there for more than just prayer.

The 53rd Annual Islamic Society of North America convention has begun. Thousands of devotees are expected in Rosemont, for a weekend jam-packed with shopping, spirituality and speeches.

Among the traditionally dressed are brothers with the recognizable uniforms of the Boy Scouts.

They are here to promote their religious chapter of the Boy Scouts, nearly 5,000 strong in the U.S.

The ISNA convention draws several youth groups.

"There's a way for everyone to participate in the community and to have an impact on America and the world," Boy Scout Mikeeal Martinez-Jaka says.

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson will speak at the convention Saturday night. .

He will be the highest ranking U.S. government official to ever address this crowd.