A pro-independence group for LGBT members and supporters will help "persuade" people to vote Yes next year, according to Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
The Out for Independence organisation, a wing of the SNP, is holding its first conference in Glasgow.
Ms Sturgeon said: "The SNP have a positive message for all of Scotland and I congratulate Out for Independence on holding their inaugural conference. It's a great new group for the SNP, but even more importantly one that I believe will help persuade the people of Scotland to vote Yes in next year's referendum."
Speakers at the conference include Tom French, of the Equality Network, which campaigned for same-sex marriage legislation.
Conference organiser Stewart McDonald said: "Our first annual conference promises to be a huge success as we welcome members and supporters from across Scotland who want to hear what the SNP has to offer, and why they should vote Yes in 2014."
