Houston Oks Controversial Gay Rights Ordinance

The Houston City Council has approved a controversial gay rights ordinance that critics say would impede religious liberties.

The 11-6 vote came late Wednesday after more than 12 hours of debate and months of protests from area churches and Christian business owners.

They call the law unconstitutional because it infringes on their right to speak out against homosexuality.

"This is what the city has turned into. This is not equal rights; this is unequal rights," Willie Davis, pastor of MacGregor Palm Community Baptist Church in Houston, said.

However, Houston Mayor Annise Parker, who is openly gay, said the measure protects sexual minorities.

"This is not the most important thing I have done or will do as mayor," she told reporters. "But it is the most personally satisfying, the most personally meaningful thing that I will do as mayor."

The law will take effect in 30 days.