''Where are our sons and daughters? Where are they?'' they ask.

This is the "Caravan for Peace with Justice and Dignity."

After travelling across the United States the Caravan has arrived in New York City to call for an end to the drugs war in Mexico that's cost thousands of lives.

Olga Reyes has lost more than 20 family members in drug-reltated violence.

(SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) OLGA REYES, HUMANITARIAN, SAYING:

"We want to change policies. For example those to do with arms trafficking - because with these weapons they are killing our brothers and sisters in Mexico."

Thursday's vigil was also to highlight the drug war effects north of the border.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) DANIEL ROBELO, RESEARCH COORDINATOR FOR DRUG POLICY ALLIANCE, SAYING:

"Tonight, I think the vigil is drawing attention to the fact that it's not just our brothers and sisters in Mexico who are suffering so much because of this failed war on drugs, but also communities right here in New York, communities in the United States."

Former Mexican President Felipe Calderon launched a crackdown on the powerful drugs cartels after taking office in 2006.

Since then more than 55,000 people have lost their lives.