Equal Voice - June 26, 2014 - Residents in New York City – regardless of their immigration or income status – will soon be able to receive a municipal identification card following the City Council’s approval on Thursday of the plan, The Center for Popular Democracy (CPD) reported.

Mayor Bill de Blasio introduced the idea, known as the “City ID,” and it will be available to residents without consideration of race and citizenship status. New York City government agencies and other major institutions will accept the document as proof of identity.

“The new ‘City ID’ will…smooth interactions with city agencies, and likely allow thousands of undocumented New Yorkers to check out library books, sign leases and open bank accounts,” CPD said in a blog post on its website.

“It will also give many of the city’s most vulnerable residents much greater confidence when they interact and engage with city law enforcement agencies.”

CPD found in a report that looked at other municipalities with similar programs that the identification cards offer protection and a sense of empowerment to “vulnerable communities.” Also, CPD said, the cards “hold symbolic importance in creating a sense of shared community and belonging for immigrants and other marginalized individuals.”

The City Council voted 43-3 in support of the identification cards, CPD said.

The Center for Popular Democracy (CPD), which has offices in New York City and Washington, D.C., works with unions and others to support workers and immigrants. The group focuses on social and economic justice.

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