SAN DIEGO -- Hundreds of gay and lesbian protesters and their supporters participated in the countywide “Equality Torch Relay" on Saturday, then converged for a rally calling for equal marriage rights and the repeal of Proposition 8 outside of the county administration.

A new struggle is beginning between those who want Prop 8 repealed and those who want it to remain the law.

While waiting for other marchers in Lemon Grove Saturday morning, Ron deHarte was attacked by a man who deHarte said uttered anti-gay slurs.

The man was apprehended a short time later and will be charged with assault and possibly a hate crime.

The Rev. Jim Garlow of Skyline Church said Californians have twice voted to define marriage as only between a man and a woman. The will of the people should be respected, he said.

Garlow also called for civility between both sides. The Rev. Albert Ogle, a supporter of same-sex marriage rights, agrees.