Proposal to issue library cards as IDs builds on city’s rich tradition of strengthening diverse communities
Los Angeles – The Los Angeles Times reported on Tuesday that the City Council is considering a proposal to issue library cards as a form of ID to thousands of Angelenos who contribute on a daily basis to our city’s progress but because of their undocumented immigration status cannot obtain a state ID or driver’s license. The following is a statement for Angelica Salas, executive director for the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA), a regional human and immigrant rights organization with national impact.
“At a time when selling an ice cream, walking a child to school, or riding a bicycle to work can be mean deportation for hundreds of thousands of hard-working and contributing members of the Los Angeles community, we welcome and enthusiastically support the City Council’s proposal to issue library cards as a form of identification.
CHIRLA and the City of Los Angeles have worked extensively for many years to ensure undocumented immigrant workers, families, and students are welcomed and encouraged to succeed in the land of opportunity and freedom. From measures to stop unjust impounds to opportunities for street vendors, it is in the best interest of all Angelenos to foster trustful relations between all members of the community and city entities.
The City of Los Angeles is in the business of strengthening links between communities and their local services, establishing pathways to success for everyone, and welcoming the diverse communities that make this giant urban center their home. An identification card that pays for itself, keeps consumers from falling prey to unscrupulous lenders, and helps a family out of the shadows is an investment worth supporting.”
Seize the Dream Now! – ¡Atrapa tu Sueño Ahora!
