It's their land by law.

But an ongoing battle just across the border has driven hundreds from the place they once called home.

It's the future spot for the new port of entry in Sunland Park.

But the way the land is being cleared is anything but dignified.

"I think it's time that the people of El Paso and New Mexico found out about the ongoing human rights tragedy that has been going on here," said Mary Gates, an activist for the cause.

The land resembles a modern day concentration camp.

"They took away our property. They closed the stores. They took away our electricity," said Jose Antonio Espino Gonzalez, a resident of Lomas De Poleo.

It's just feet away from the thriving city of El Paso. The Lomas de Poleo area used to house about 250 families. Now, only about a dozen remain.

"We haven't received any support at all. They don't hear us out. Except for you guys, the Americans over here," said Silvia Rodriguez, another resident.

The fight over the land started about 10 years ago. A powerful businessman, Pedro Zaragoza, allegedly came in and unsuccessfully claimed ownership. Since then, residents say conditions have been unbearable.

"They killed our animals. They killed our kids. They have us encircled. We live a practically abnormal life,' said Gonzalez.

Cement posts with barbed wire and watch towers have been put up to enclose the land. The school in the small community has also been destroyed.

"These people built their own community. They built their own dirt roads,' said Gates.

The few who remain just want to negotiate, and have a fair and just resolution to end the conflict.

"For me, it's a lot to sacrifice to just let go of my house for them to just give me that kind of money," said Rodriguez.

"We don't want to leave our land. We were born there and we want to remain there," said Gonzalez.

Las Cruces City Council along with many other local activists have supported the community keeping its land.