Border Wall Section Near El Paso Could Affect Mt. Christo Rey Visitors

New segments being added to the border wall are angering more than illegal aliens and cartels these days, now indigenous leaders and El Paso area faithful are mad too.

All along the U.S. - Mexico border, new segments are being added to the incomplete "border wall" and, in some areas, locals are upset over different side effects including desecrating sacred lands and its ecological impact where it threatens endangered wildlife.

Near El Paso, in Sunland Park, New Mexico, the government wants to seize land for the wall and surveillance equipment that could impede access to Mt. Christo Rey.

READ MORE: Mt. Christo Rey Crucifix Is NOT A Crucifix

The government has offered $185, 000 dollars for 14 acres of land near Christo Rey but the Catholic Diocese of Las Cruces doesn't want to sell it. So, now the government is suing them.

Why Does The Government Want That Land?

According to the Texas Tribune; "The lawsuit argues that the federal government needs the land to install barriers and other technology “designed to help secure the United States-Mexico border.”. Construction crews started blasting and doing prep work in the area back in January.

Catholic Diocese of Las Cruces Vs. The U.S. Government

“The erection of a border wall through or along this holy site could irreparably damage its religious and cultural sanctity, obstruct pilgrimage routes, and transfer sacred space into a symbol of division,” the diocese said. “Any federal action to seize this land, construct physical barriers, or impede access to Mount Cristo Rey would constitute a significant infringement on religious freedom and the rights of worship.” - texastribune.org

READ MORE: Blasting For Border Wall Construction Began In January

People from all over the Borderland climb to the top of the mountain, some on their knees, to pray, ask Gods blessing or as a way of saying thanks for blessings received among other things. On special days like Easter or the feast day of Christ The King, crowds can grow to as many as 40,000.

The Mount Cristo Rey Restoration Committee Disagrees

The committee is a volunteer group, not affiliated with the church. A spokesperson for them, Ruben Escandon, Jr, says going ahead with the governments plan is a must.

He says new barriers would help ensure the safety of those visiting the site and would not stop visitors from climbing to the crucifix as they currently do. According to the Teas Tribune, he said: “Finishing that wall, for us, will help maintain the religious, cultural and artistic aspect.”

To get biblical, this has a bit of a David and Goliath feel to it. Only, this time, I think Goliath, (aka Uncle Sam), is gonna win.