Renowned human rights defender Peter Schey, who dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of migrants crossing the Southern border, passed away in Los Angeles at the age of 77. Schey, an immigrant himself from South Africa, made a significant impact through his legal practice, which focused on ensuring humane treatment for undocumented children and access to education and healthcare for migrants.
One of Schey’s landmark achievements was negotiating the Flores Settlement Agreement in 1997, which protected detained, unaccompanied migrant children. He also successfully challenged California’s Proposition 187, a voter-passed initiative that sought to deny social services to undocumented migrants, leading to a shift in Latino voting power in the state.
Throughout his career, Schey fearlessly took on both Democratic and Republican administrations in Washington, holding the government accountable for its treatment of vulnerable groups. His work on cases like Plyler v. Doe, which ensured access to education for all children regardless of immigration status, had far-reaching consequences on U.S. immigration policy.
Despite his demanding nature and workaholic tendencies, Schey’s dedication to defending immigrants never wavered. He was described as a passionate advocate who never backed down in the face of adversity. His legacy lives on through the lasting impact of his legal victories and his unwavering commitment to social justice.
Schey’s passing marks the end of an era for the immigrant rights movement, but his influence will continue to be felt for years to come. His tireless efforts to uphold the rights of migrants have left an indelible mark on the legal landscape and serve as a reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and equality for all.
