Phoenix city councilman sparks outrage with anti-gay remarks

PHOENIX (AP) — Gay rights organizations called on a Phoenix city councilman to resign Thursday in the wake of video showing him bemoaning same-sex marriage and transgender people's use of restrooms that correspond with their gender identity.

Several activists and fellow Democrats said Councilman Michael Nowakowski, who has supported gay rights in the past, had broken the trust of his constituents.

According to the post, Nowakowski was addressing a group of Evangelical ministers last month about public prayer at meetings.

The councilman also said his voting record shows he has a history of protecting LGBT rights.

Justin Owen, executive director of Phoenix Pride, said Nowakowski previously took part in the city's gay pride parade and was even a keynote speaker at an AIDS vigil.