Humanitarian Eddie Canales, Champion of Migrant Rights, Dies at 76

Eddie Canales, a tireless advocate for migrant rights and founder of the South Texas Human Rights Center, passed away on July 30, 2024, at his home in Corpus Christi, Texas. He was 76 years old. The cause of death was pancreatic cancer, as confirmed by Nancy Vera, vice president of the organization Canales led for over a decade.

Canales dedicated his later years to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Brooks County, Texas, located approximately 70 miles north of the Rio Grande. This region, often referred to as "Death Valley" due to its harsh conditions, has been the site of numerous migrant deaths as individuals attempt to circumvent a Border Patrol checkpoint near Falfurrias.

In 2013, Canales established the South Texas Human Rights Center, focusing on providing water to migrants traversing the arid landscape. Despite initial challenges, including private land ownership and skepticism from local ranchers, Canales successfully installed over 200 water stations across South Texas.

"I tell them, 'If there's water available, they're less likely to come knocking on your door.'"

The humanitarian's efforts extended beyond water provision. Canales collaborated with law enforcement agencies to coordinate search-and-rescue missions and assisted in recovering remains. He also advocated for the enforcement of DNA testing for unidentified remains and supported exhumation efforts to bring closure to families of missing migrants.

Canales' journey to humanitarian work began with his roots in union organizing and political activism. Born on January 12, 1948, in Corpus Christi, Texas, to migrant farmworker parents, Canales experienced firsthand the challenges faced by working-class families. His early career included involvement with the Mexican American Youth Organization and the Raza Unida Party, which advocated for Chicano rights.

Throughout his life, Canales worked with various labor unions, including the Service Employees International Union and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. This background in organizing informed his approach to humanitarian work, emphasizing the importance of building connections and addressing systemic issues.

Canales often highlighted the complex factors contributing to the migrant crisis, including U.S. immigration policies and the role of human smugglers. He argued for a more comprehensive approach to address the root causes of migration and create safer pathways for those seeking a better life.

The legacy of Eddie Canales serves as a reminder of the ongoing humanitarian challenges at the U.S.-Mexico border and the power of individual action in addressing complex social issues. His work continues to inspire others in the fight for migrant rights and human dignity.