'This is what California looks like:' Compton hosts horseback unity ride for immigrant families

COMPTON, Calif. (KABC) -- Dozens of cowboys and cowgirls rode through the streets of Compton on Sunday in a show of support for the local immigrant community during the "Nation of Immigrants Unity" ride.

The event began at Walton Middle School and concluded at Compton City Hall, with riders traveling from across Southern California to participate.

"It feels good to be around everyone ... the community coming together," said Fernando Ruelas, a participant in the ride.

Organizers said the event was intended to bring riders together in solidarity with local immigrants and in response to what community members have experienced over the past year.

"Everybody has been feeling like, in fear, I guess you could say ... feeling like one day you're here, another day or not," said Daniela Lepe, a participant in the ride.

The ride marked the anniversary of the Human Rights Unity Ride that took place last June near a Home Depot store in Paramount, an area organizers said was swarmed by ICE.

"They weren't just grabbing people, you know, people who were selling food and people who were construction workers, but outside of a Home Depot, where you know there are a lot of people looking to do work," said Daniel Hom, a participant in the ride. "They got in a fight with people from our community, and it was just, you know, it was shocking to people who live in this area in the southeast ... we're not used to that kind of disruption. We are a peaceful community in Compton."

Organizers said they hope to hold more events in the future as they continue their outreach and community-building efforts.