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First Comprehensive, Independent Evaluation of Nation’s Largest Municipal ID Program Shows IDNYC Necessity for New Yorkers

August 18, 2016

One in ten New Yorkers has an IDNYC; more than half of cardholders use IDNYC as primary form of identification

NEW YORK—Today, Mayor Bill de Blasio released the first comprehensive evaluation of IDNYC, New York City’s municipal identification program and the largest program of its kind in the country. The report confirms that IDNYC benefits every New York City resident, especially our most vulnerable communities. More than half of IDNYC’s 863,464 unique cardholders now use the card as their primary form of identification and over three-quarters of immigrants surveyed reported that the card increases their sense of belonging to the city.

Mayor Bill de Blasio said, “For too long, many New Yorkers struggled to get affordable, accepted, government-issued proof of identification. With IDNYC, my team and I set out to right that wrong. This evaluation demonstrates how IDNYC creates a stronger and safer city that works for all New Yorkers. I am proud that our City’s municipal ID program continues to flourish and unite all New Yorkers from every borough and every walk of life.”

“The New York City Council is proud of our successful efforts to establish the largest municipal identification card program in the country,” said Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito. “IDNYC is a safe, secure form of identification for all New Yorkers and I thank Westat and Metis Associates for their thorough assessment, and IDNYC cardholders and partner institutions for their insightful feedback as we work with the Administration on the continued success of IDNYC.”

The independent study, conducted by Westat and Metis Associates, examines aspects of the program that have been successful as well as areas in which the program can grow. The evaluation synthesizes data drawn from 39 focus groups, several dozen individual interviews with community leaders and program partners, survey responses from more than 77,000 cardholders, and administrative data.

The full report is available here.

IDNYC: A Tool of Empowerment:

  • IDNYC is a necessity, particularly for immigrant communities: 66.6 percent of immigrant survey respondents use IDNYC as their most commonly used photo ID and nearly 25 percent of all survey respondents indicated that the IDNYC card is their only form of U.S. photo identification. More than 50 percent of all survey respondents now use the IDNYC card as their primary ID.
  • It promotes a sense a belonging: 77 percent of survey respondents who were immigrants reported that IDNYC has increased their sense of belonging to the city, and focus group participants appreciated that IDNYC conveys no information about one’s country of origin or legal status.
  • New Yorkers feel safer and more secure: 59 percent of survey respondents who responded to the question about law enforcement interactions reported that having the card makes them feel more confident about potential encounters with police officers.
  • IDNYC is easy to get: 94 percent of survey respondents reported that the process of getting the card was either somewhat or very easy.

 

“IDNYC is a prime example of municipal government at its best: inclusive, responsive, accessible,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Policy Initiatives Richard Buery. “This evaluation shows us how we can continue to grow the program, and how we can learn from its success to help us continue to serve the needs of New Yorkers of all backgrounds and circumstances.”

“Today, one out of ten New Yorkers has an IDNYC. The early outcomes of the program have influenced cities across the world, from Detroit to Paris, to adopt their own municipal ID programs,” said Commissioner Nisha Agarwal of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs. “This evaluation depicts how municipal ID programs can serve the needs of a diverse city population, from ensuring access to City services to creating never before seen access to cultural museums. As we go further into year two of IDNYC, we will continue to find ways to make it a useful card for all New Yorkers, regardless of their immigration status.”

“IDNYC has taken a life of its own, exceeding our expectations in New York City and setting the blueprint for other major cities across the country who are looking to create their own municipal ID programs. This evaluation tells us that we are getting a lot of things right and helps us think about ways to expand and improve access for the hardest-to-reach populations. I am most proud to find out that this card has successfully brought communities that have been historically marginalized, like undocumented immigrants, youth and seniors, into the fold and has given them a sense of belonging. I celebrate these results and, at the same time, challenge my colleagues on the Council and in the Administration to ensure that eventually all New Yorkers know about IDNYC and become cardholders!” said Council Member Carlos Menchaca, Chair of the Committee on Immigration.   

“Thousands of New Yorkers now have access to identification vital to performing basic daily tasks, from accessing City buildings to opening bank accounts,” said Council Member Daniel Dromm, lead sponsor of the legislation that created IDNYC.  “As a Council Member representing one of the largest and most diverse immigrant communities in New York, I will continue to work alongside the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs to promote this important program.”

As a government-issued photo identification card, IDNYC secures the peace of mind and access to City services that come from having recognized identification. The report studies how IDNYC is increasing New Yorkers’ access to schools, City services, financial institutions, and cultural institutions, including findings such as:

  • More than 400,000 memberships with cultural institutions were initiated using IDNYC in the first year and a half of the program.
  • 39 percent of survey respondents who used the IDNYC to access public benefits reported that the card had “greatly” helped them receive services.
  • Nearly 25 percent of survey respondents have used the IDNYC to visit their child’s school during school hours.
  • An estimated 30,000 New Yorkers have signed up to be organ donors ‎for the first time as a result of IDNYC. 
  • 73 percent of IDNYC cardholders listed an emergency contact on their card, which is particularly helpful for minors, the elderly, and individuals with limited English proficiency.

 

IDNYC benefits every New York City resident, including our most vulnerable communities – such as the homeless, youth, the elderly, undocumented immigrants, transgender New Yorkers, and others who may have difficulty obtaining other government-issued ID. The evaluation demonstrates that IDNYC is reaching diverse communities:

  • Over 150 languages are represented across IDNYC cardholders, reflecting the diversity of New York City.
  • Among survey respondents identifying as transgender or gender non-conforming, approximately 44 percent indicated that the opportunity to have an ID that displays their gender of preference was a driving factor for getting the IDNYC.
  • Seniors (65 and older) have used the card more than any other group to access free memberships at cultural institutions, with 67 percent of senior survey respondents reporting they activated memberships.
  • IDNYC is the most commonly used identification for 67 percent of immigrant survey respondents and 58 percent of youth survey respondents.

 

The evaluation analyzed some of the reasons for IDNYC’s success, including: a program design that is appealing to a broad range of New Yorkers, not select groups; enrollment centers in the community across all five boroughs, including pop-up sites; deep engagement with community partners in the planning and design of the program; extensive, multilingual outreach and marketing; and a fast and substantial response to very high initial demand. The report also includes recommendations on ways to improve the program. For example, better guidance on how the card can – or cannot – be used, including how to access benefits with cultural institutions and how to use the card at financial institutions; the need for ongoing communication with cardholders; and ongoing, deep community-based work to address questions and concerns of very vulnerable populations such as the homeless.

The findings of the evaluation are based on the total number of unique cardholders as of June 30, 2016, which was 863,464. The program’s quarterly reports, submitted to the Mayor and the Speaker, are required pursuant to Local Law 35 of 2014 to report on the number of cards issued, which includes cards that have been reprinted for applicants who have requested changes to the information on their card, such as address, legal name, or gender, or whose IDNYC has been lost or stolen. According to the most recent quarterly report, from June 30, 2016, the total number of cards issued is 887,525. For the purposes of this evaluation, the research team determined that a focus on cardholders, as opposed to cards issued, would provide the best portrait of how New Yorkers were using their IDNYC and the impact of the program on city residents.

All City residents age 14 and above are eligible to get a municipal ID card, and enrollment is free for anyone who applies. The City protects the confidentiality of all IDNYC card applications and does not ask applicants about their immigration status.

For more information on IDNYC eligibility criteria, benefits, enrollment centers and more, applicants can visit nyc.gov/idnyc.

“The success of IDNYC shows this Administration’s unwavering commitment to make City resources accessible to all New Yorkers including the most vulnerable – homeless families and individuals, seniors, undocumented immigrants, formerly incarcerated persons and others who may have difficulty obtaining other government-issued ID,” said Department of Social Services Commissioner Steven Banks. “As the most successful municipal ID in the nation, IDNYC is not only an effective tool to conduct business in the city, but also a key to enjoying the unique cultural richness that New York City has to offer.”  

“This evaluation underscores the profound effect the IDNYC card is having on hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers – from access to basic government services to an increased sense of belonging to the city,” said Mayor’s Office of Operations Director Mindy Tarlow. “This administration is committed to learning through independent evaluations such as this one, so that we can continue building on the program’s far-reaching success.” 

“As a new cardholder, I’m exploring and loving the many benefits of IDNYC,” said Department of Consumer Affairs Commissioner Lorelei Salas. “At DCA, we are committed to fighting inequality and expanding access to financial resources and services, which IDNYC can be a vital tool in achieving. We remain committed to increasing access to using IDNYC to open bank accounts and to expanding outreach and education about the financial benefits of the card.”

“We are very proud to be the main provider of healthcare to the city’s immigrant community, and we’re glad to support programs like IDNYC to empower our patients and give them access to the full benefits other New Yorkers already enjoy,” said Dr. Ram Raju, President and CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals. “We recently began to integrate IDNYC into our registration process to reduce registration wait time, more seamlessly connect patients to all the healthcare services they need and improve the patient experience. We look forward to seeing even more benefits and success next year.”

“Every New Yorker has a right to access the health care they need, and the success of IDNYC has helped us continue to improve health care access in our city,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. “From the members of the City’s ActionHealthNYC program who use IDNYC as their membership card, to the New Yorkers using the card’s prescription drug discount, IDNYC is already making health care more accessible to all New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status or ability to pay. The Health Department is proud to be a partner in ensuring the continued success of IDNYC.”

“This report makes it clear that IDNYC has been instrumental in forging new connections between the city's extraordinary cultural organizations and NYC residents,” said Tom Finkelpearl, Commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs. “We are proud to partner with the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs and cultural institutions in all five boroughs on this important program. With over 400,000 cultural memberships redeemed to date, residents have shown us just how essential art and culture is to New York’s civic life.”

“IDNYC helps police officers serve New Yorkers better, particularly when we need a contact in the event of an emergency, when it’s hard to communicate with someone and we need to know their preferred language, or when we are determining eligibility for a summons. We encourage New Yorkers to consider getting an identification card,” said NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton.

“IDNYC unifies all New Yorkers,” said Commissioner and Chair of the Human Rights Commission Carmelyn P. Malalis. “From allowing transgender New Yorkers to self-identify, to reinforcing New York City’s commitment to immigrant communities, IDNYC reminds us that NYC is a welcoming city to all.”

“Every day, IDNYC is helping more and more families visit school buildings, receive critical City services and explore cultural institutions, regardless of their zip code, immigration status or native language,” said Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña. “Immigrant families often face many obstacles, and being able to enter their child’s school should never be one of them. I encourage New Yorkers to take advantage of this important service and the vast range of services that IDNYC affords.”

“Thanks to our partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, NYCHA is bringing IDNYC directly to residents, with new pop-up enrollment centers at our developments. More than 200 people have enrolled at NYCHA’s first pop-up site, which opened two weeks ago,” said NYCHA Chair and CEO Shola Olatoye. “IDNYC gives New Yorkers access to a wide range of cultural and educational offerings across the city – regardless of their status or background. This collaboration is a perfect example of how we can work with our partners to connect NYCHA residents to quality resources and programs.”

“IDNYC is an invaluable resource for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers, including many survivors of domestic violence who are homeless or undocumented immigrants. IDNYC’s enhanced safety considerations for survivors of domestic violence provide a lifeline that not only helps to connect survivors and their families to the services they need, but also helps them take steps toward rebuilding their lives,” said Commissioner Cecile Noel of the Mayor’s Office to Combat Domestic Violence.

“IDNYC has empowered countless young people and their families by giving them a proper form of identification that opens the doors to important services and free access to New York City’s crown  jewels – our museums and cultural institutions,” said Bill Chong, Department of Youth and Community Development Commissioner. “This evaluation is testament that IDNYC has become an indispensable resource for all New Yorkers who are looking to take advantage of the increasing list of benefits this program provides. I encourage everyone who is 14 and older to apply and take advantage of all the great things this City has to offer.”

Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, said, "Access and equity are the foundations of NYC Parks, and they're values we proudly share with IDNYC. IDNYC is a powerful tool that opens doors for any New Yorker who holds the card – including the doors to NYC Parks recreation centers across the city, where IDNYC holders receive a 10 percent membership discount."

“If an individual is stopped by the police for a minor offense, having an official government ID can mean the difference between a summons and an arrest,” said Elizabeth Glazer, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice. “IDNYC helps to improve fairness in the criminal justice system by reducing unnecessary arrests – avoiding an expensive experience that can mean missed work or childcare commitments for the individual and time diverted from policing public safety threats for the officer involved.”  

“IDNYC was a great success for our staff. The pop-up site on Rikers Island allowed for over 1,100 of our personnel to sign-up and begin receiving the benefits afforded by this card,” said Department of Correction Commissioner Joseph Ponte.

“DVS proudly hails the success of IDNYC, the nation’s largest municipal ID program, and the first to offer a Veteran Designator for New York City’s 225,000 veterans, who otherwise often find it difficult to provide ready evidence of their military service. Thanks to Mayor Bill de Blasio’s bold leadership and MOIA Commissioner Nisha Agarwal’s dauntless execution of this program, veterans have tangible proof of their City’s support and respect for their service on behalf of us all,” said Commissioner Loree Sutton, Department of Veterans’ Services. “Further, every New Yorker may benefit from obtaining the IDNYC card and accessing a wide range of financial, City government, school and cultural institutions – yet another reason demonstrating why NYC is the greatest city in the world!”  

“IDNYC is not only an identification card, but also an opportunity for older New Yorkers to remain active and engaged through discounted admissions offered to IDNYC cardholders,” said Department for the Aging Commissioner Donna Corrado.

“IDNYC has been great for women and LGBTQ New Yorkers across the five boroughs,” said Azadeh Khalili, Executive Director of the Commission on Gender Equity. “Hundreds of thousands of women from every walk of life have benefitted from the program – immigrant women, homeless women, disabled women, elderly women, women leaving the criminal justice system and trans women. In fact, nearly 60 percent of New Yorkers with an IDNYC are women.”

“IDNYC creates a more inclusive and equitable city by providing easy and free access to an officially recognized ID. For those on probation, this has already had the real and tangible impact of providing greater access to vital City services and other important opportunities, thereby strengthening community connections and enhancing their overall well-being,” said Department of Probation Commissioner Ana M. Bermudez.

“As the evaluation demonstrates, one of the key factors for the success of this program is the enrollment centers in the community across all five boroughs. From the beginning DCAS has been committed to working with our partners to provide the public with safe and accessible locations to register for IDNYC, and we’ll continue to work towards ensuring that same outcome as the program is expanded,” said Department of Citywide Administrative Services Commissioner Lisette Camilo.

“IDNYC has proven to be an important resource for many of the city’s most vulnerable populations, including undocumented immigrants, the homeless, transgender New Yorkers, and victims of domestic abuse – groups that are not getting the support they need and deserve in many parts of the country,” said Matt Klein, Executive Director of the NYC Center for Economic Opportunity.  “CEO is proud to be partnering with the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs to produce this data-driven evaluation of IDNYC, providing a roadmap for more effective government in New York, and in other cities. This evaluation, which drew on focus groups with hundreds of IDNYC cardholders and a survey of thousands, provides a chance to hear directly from New Yorkers about how they are using their cards and what they think about the initiative.” 

“This evaluation illustrates the impact and value of IDNYC as a tool for the integration of the communities we serve into the social and economic fabric of New York City. We look forward to the continued growth of the program across all demographics,” said Commissioner Marco A. Carrión, Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit.

“IDNYC is a great example of the City’s efforts to be more customer-friendly, creating a program that New Yorkers were obviously waiting for. IDNYC has given so many New Yorkers not only a legitimate form of identification; it provides access to a variety of services. The response at our five business centers throughout the city, where New Yorkers have been applying for the ID card, has been tremendous,” said Department of Finance Commissioner Jacques Jiha, Ph.D.

“IDNYC is vital to our most vulnerable communities,” said Administration for Children’s Services Commissioner Gladys Carrión. “For our young people involved in foster care and juvenile justice, IDNYC is critical tool that helps some to apply for jobs and other important opportunities. Along with serving as a secure form of identification, the incredible benefits that come with an IDNYC help our families spend time together while enjoying wonderful NYC cultural attractions for free.”

“SBS is committed to building a vibrant economy by providing valuable services to the city’s jobseekers, small businesses and neighborhoods,” said Gregg Bishop, Commissioner of the Department of Small Business Services. “Ensuring these services are accessible to all New Yorkers is a priority, and IDNYC opens our doors even wider – especially to foreign born New Yorkers, who make up a third of the city’s population, and account for nearly half of small business owners.”

“IDNYC has become a passport for the hundreds of thousands of cardholders who now have unprecedented access to municipal agencies and cultural institutions, as well as an identification card that proudly defines them as citizens of the City of New York,” said Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams. “The program follows in the best of our traditions, recognizing that immigrants of every generation should have the ability to participate in our civil society. As a proud IDNYC cardholder myself, I will continue to encourage all New Yorkers to ‘Embrace Your Hyphen’ as individuals who celebrate their unique culture heritages and enjoy their rights as full members of our communities.”

“IDNYC is an example of government at its best,” said Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer. “It solves a big problem, providing ID to undocumented city residents who need it to access services. At the same time, it provides great benefits and perks for all New Yorkers. In both respects, these metrics show the program is a success.”

“We knew that IDNYC was popular because more than 1,000 people signed up for IDNYC cards at the Queens Borough Hall temporary pop-up enrollment center last summer and many more have done so since the center retuned here last month,” said Queens Borough President Melinda Katz. “IDNYC has helped give residents the peace of mind of knowing they can visit their children at school and access other important City services. The study confirms what we already knew – that IDNYC has been a boon to ‘The World’s Borough’ and to our entire city.”

“This study confirms that our municipal ID program is doing exactly what it set out to do – to ensure the integration of all our communities,” said Congressman Joe Crowley. “I’m encouraged to see the number of cardholders continue to grow because it underscores just how important IDNYC has become for New Yorkers to be able to access the services they need and take advantage of everything our city has to offer. IDNYC’s impact has been undeniable and I thank the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs for continuing to make it as accessible as possible.”

“IDNYC is clearly working and having a positive impact on cardholders, their families, and our communities. It is not only facilitating access to basic services like schools, libraries, and financial institutions. It is also increasing the security of our streets and immigrants’ sense of belonging. In less than a year, nearly one million people have signed up, and I only expect this number to continue increasing,” said Congressman José Serrano.

“I strongly encourage my constituents to apply for IDNYC in order to gain access to the many benefits it offers,” said State Senator Leroy Comrie. “IDNYC helps to ensure that all New Yorkers – regardless of immigration status – are given the opportunity to enjoy many of our City’s public attractions and resources.”

State Senator Jose Peralta, said, “New York’s municipal identification program has been successful, especially when it comes to helping hard-working undocumented immigrants. It is especially important that the IDNYC has allowed many New Yorkers to access public services. I am glad more and more people are taking advantage of the benefits offered under this program, including access to cultural institutions, schools and public libraries. It is also significant to see that approximately 30,000 New Yorkers enrolled in the Organ Donor Registry. I want to thank Mayor de Blasio and Commissioner Agarwal for the efforts made to put this government-issued identification card into place.”

“IDNYC has opened doors for some of our city’s most vulnerable citizens. Every day it is helping low income New Yorkers, immigrants, seniors, and many others get access to vital services and benefits, not to mention so many cultural institutions. Getting one is quick and easy – I have one myself. I congratulate Mayor de Blasio and his team for this successful program, and look forward to seeing it grow in the future,” said State Senator Liz Krueger.

“Municipal identification has been successful in cities throughout the world. It’s no surprise that New York City’s is as well-received as it is. It’s remarkable that such a simple program can make such an impact, but the City’s latest figures substantiate that. The security and opportunity IDNYC provides our immigrant communities is perhaps its greatest success, with the majority of them reporting a newfound sense of belonging. I commend Mayor de Blasio for sticking to his word and delivering a quality of service beyond expectation,” said State Senator Martin Malavé Dilan.

“I am very proud of the tremendous success of the revolutionary IDNYC program. IDNYC has allowed for countless New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status, to have access to essential services and provide countless benefits for communities who may otherwise experience difficulty obtaining a government-issued ID. Throughout my time as an elected official, I have fought for the protection of our immigrant community and I am proud to see the continued success of this great program," said State Senator José M. Serrano.

“As an enthusiastic participant, I proudly support the IDNYC program and all the benefits and advantages it offers to our diverse immigrant communities. This past spring, I hosted an IDNYC two week pop up event at my District Office in which IDNYC welcomed and enrolled more than 500 people. It is a privilege to possess a NYC municipal ID card, which I consider an essential tool of empowerment for all New Yorkers," said State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud.

“The first evaluation on the outcomes of our City’s municipal ID program is quite promising. New Yorkers, particularly in our immigrant communities, have found IDNYC to be a life changing resource that has enabled them to have access to the tools they need to succeed," said State Senator Gustavo Rivera. “We need to continue working to expand the program, especially in underserved neighborhoods, to ensure that every New Yorker has the opportunity to secure an IDNYC.”

“IDNYC has provided thousands of New Yorkers with the ability to live better lives. Many of the new cardholders are immigrants with limited English speaking ability. Programs like IDNYC improve opportunities for housing, banking, employment and education. We should take this a step further and help more immigrants obtain drivers’ licenses as well," said Assistant Assembly Speaker Felix W. Ortiz.

“As a proud immigrant, and an elected official representing a large population of new Americans, it’s great news to see that an independent evaluation has deemed IDNYC a rousing success. As indicated by this report, many cardholders had previously been without proper identification and found themselves unaccounted for and lost in the shadows. As such I applaud Mayor de Blasio for removing obstacles and aiding countless New Yorkers in their pursuit of the ‘American Dream,’” said Assembly Member Nick Perry, Chairman of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislative Caucus.

"For so many years, hardworking immigrant residents of NYC were left disconnected and feeling unwelcome, afraid to even step foot in their children's schools, yet today thanks to IDNYC that has changed. IDNYC is an incredibly innovative and successful tool to improve the quality of life for all NYC residents. I'm grateful to Mayor de Blasio and Commissioner Agarwal for their vision and commitment to bringing all New Yorkers together,” said Assembly Member Marcos A. Crespo.

“IDNYC is a unique and exceptional benefit for all who live in New York City to explore its cultural institutions and to identify as New Yorkers. I had the pleasure of partnering with MOIA Commissioner Nisha Agarwal and NYPL Chief Operating Officer Iris Weinshall to bring IDNYC pop-up site to my district, which enrolled over 500 people in only 11 days! We must continue to support IDNYC, and programs alike that are versatile and open to all,” said Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright.

“IDNYC has demonstrated broad usefulness since its launch more than a year ago. New Yorkers who lacked U.S. photo identification are no longer barred from visiting their child’s school, opening a bank account, or engaging in numerous ordinary activities that most people take for granted. Memberships with New York City’s cultural institutions are an added benefit that lowers barriers to access for New Yorkers from all walks of life,” said Assembly Member Latrice Walker. “IDNYC is fast becoming the must-have card for anyone who resides in New York City.”

"I am happy to see such impressive results from the independent study, conducted by Westat and Metis Associates on the usage of the IDNYC cards," said Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte. "The IDNYC card indeed addressed many of the issues it set out to address such as access to City services, financial institutions, schools, and cultural institutions. A critical issue for many of the residents in my assembly district, which has a large immigrant population, was access to an official government issued ID. Often, the cost of other types of government issued IDs is prohibitive. Having an IDNYC card opened so many doors for them."‎

“Mayor de Blasio's introduction of what has become the largest municipal ID program in the nation has been a win-win situation all around – for the people of New York City, especially for those among its large immigrant population, and as a highly successful example of just how effective such a program can be for so many. I have seen its results firsthand as an elected official serving local communities with large immigrant populations, many of whose members have eagerly taken advantage of this program. May its growth continue!” said Assembly Member Luis R. Sepulveda.

“Every New Yorker should have access to arts and culture,” said Council Majority Leader Jimmy Van Bramer. “The IDNYC program has expanded access to our city’s world class cultural institutions for residents across the five boroughs. I look forward to working with residents, cultural institutions, and the Administration to expand access to culture through the IDNYC program.”

“This evaluation confirms that IDNYC is more than just a photo identification card. For thousands of New Yorkers, this program is a gateway to a wide range of benefits for people of all ages – regardless of their immigration status,” said Council Member Margaret S. Chin. “The success of IDNYC is due to the unwavering commitment of Mayor de Blasio in creating a municipal ID program that is the model for the entire nation, and for the world. I look forward to continuing to work with the Mayor’s Office to get this useful card in the hands of even more New Yorkers.”

“The evaluation reveals just how successful the IDNYC program has been in connecting the most vulnerable people in our city to critically needed resources and services. Our rich diversity defines the greatness of New York City and the municipal ID program is making it possible for every resident to access its public benefits and cultural treasures,” said Council Member Mathieu Eugene.

“I would like to thank Mayor Bill de Blasio and Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito for supporting this initiative. New Yorkers shouldn’t be disenfranchised and access to resources limited due to their immigration status or being homeless. This municipal ID program will continue to ensure and help New Yorkers gain access to viable City services and resources,” said Council Member Inez E. Dickens.

“IDNYC serves as a great equalizer in our city. This initiative has made it easy for anyone, regardless of immigrant status or identity, to participate freely as community members of New York City. IDNYC has also increased memberships in our cultural institutions which sustain our shared human yearnings for arts and culture. Clearly, the largest municipal identification program in the U.S. presents a model for other municipalities to replicate," said Council Member Fernando Cabrera.

“This evaluation shows conclusively what residents across my district have proven with their overwhelming support for IDNYC: that the card makes a tangible improvement in their daily lives. I am proud that Corona has the highest percentage of residents with the ID card of any neighborhood in the city. The ID has been a success in all the neighborhoods I represent. I know the program will only continue to grow in importance, unlocking the city for all of its residents,” said Council Member Julissa Ferreras-Copeland.

“These results prove that IDNYC is working. It’s working to connect New Yorkers to City services and cultural institutions, and working to build a sense of community across the five boroughs. It is proving to be a critical resource for our immigrant community and I’m hopeful that the program will continue to grow and serve as a model for cities across the nation,” said Council Member Rafael L. Espinal, Jr. 

“IDNYC has been a resounding success that has provided unprecedented access to government, social services, programs and cultural institutions for immigrants across the city. Today’s report highlights how these important cards are fast becoming a necessity not only for our newest New Yorkers, but for all New Yorkers, and I’d like to thank the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs for leading the way in this effort,” said Council Member Peter Koo. 

“I’m proud to have my IDNYC card," said Council Member Rory I. Lancman. "IDNYC is accessible to all New Yorkers, opening doors for people who have traditionally struggled to obtain an ID. This free identification program is crucial for hundreds of thousands of people in our city – and the citywide membership benefits at cultural institutions are an added bonus for anyone who signs up."

“Living in the nation's most diverse and immigrant-friendly city, IDNYC is tremendously important to finally ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to a free and accepted photo ID card,” said Council Member Mark Levine. “Far too many undocumented immigrants feel like they must live in the shadows. By signing up for IDNYC, they find a safe and affordable way of identifying themselves, and accessing the many government and cultural programs that our city has to offer. The success of this program shows the great strides that we have made toward creating a city where all residents feel safe and included.” 

“In Council District 2, we have been able to register hundreds of residents to receive a municipal ID. I have been able to work closely with IDNYC to ensure that NYCHA residents, especially our senior population, are given the opportunity to register and receive a New York City ID card. Based on the evaluation, it seems that our IDNYC program is successful and I have been able to witness that firsthand. As the Chair of the LGBT Caucus, I know how LGBT New Yorkers, especially our transgender and gender non-conforming residents, need an ID card that is consistent with their identity. Many of our community members have been able to access this ID and know that the city they call home respects them,” said Council Member Rosie Mendez.

“Last summer, I held a pop-up IDNYC registration in my district office where we helped more than 2,000 New Yorkers sign up for this tremendous municipal ID program in less than two weeks,” said Council Member Donovan Richards. “This really showed the need so many residents throughout the city have for an official form of identification. But, the additional perks make this card worthwhile for all New Yorkers to take advantage of the cultural and community benefits it offers. I’d like to thank Mayor de Blasio, Council Speaker Mark-Viverito and Commissioner Agarwal for teaming up to make this program the huge success that it is for all New Yorkers.”

“I was an early and vocal supporter of the IDNYC program, and it’s no surprise to me that it has proven so successful in its first two years. For people without another form of identification, IDNYC increased public safety by providing access to financial institutions and giving the ability to seek help or provide information to police. For all New Yorkers, IDNYC provides discounts and has introduced thousands of residents to our many cultural institutions. I carry my IDNYC card everywhere I go, and I’m always encouraging my constituents to sign up for their own card. I thank Mayor de Blasio, Speaker Mark-Viverito and Council Member Menchaca for making this program such a success, and I look forward to continuing to promote it across my district," said Council Member Deborah Rose.

“I find it deeply gratifying that the IDNYC program has been embraced by such a broad cross-section of our communities. I envision these cards as being a pathway toward a more inclusive city, one where all of its law-abiding residents can more effectively benefit from the multitude of programs and services offered by our bustling metropolis. It is my hope that a broader adoption of IDNYC will eventually eliminate any perceived stigmas associated with these cards. This report suggests an encouraging upswing, and I can attest to its realized benefits within my own district, a district that services myriad groups who otherwise wouldn't be able to take advantage of all that our City has to offer," said Council Member Annabel Palma.   

"IDNYC is useful to people from all walks of life, whether they want free memberships to dozens of cultural institutions or need a government-issued photo ID to enter their child's school. I am particularly impressed that an estimated 30,000 New Yorkers signed up to be organ donors through IDNYC – that's a gift that will change lives and save lives for thousands of New Yorkers. I want to thank Mayor Bill de Blasio, Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, Commissioner Nisha Agarwal, and Council Member Carlos Menchaca for their work in creating and expanding this excellent program," said Council Member Helen Rosenthal.

“It’s amazing how something so small can make such a big difference in people’s lives. We want everyone to feel welcome, to access financial services, and to enjoy the world class cultural opportunities this city has to offer. I expect the continued success of IDNYC to bring our communities closer than ever,” said Council Member Stephen Levin.   

“As shown from this study, the IDNYC program has allowed new residents to have a sense of belonging and feel welcome to our communities” said Council Member I. Daneek Miller. “It has also empowered immigrants to access social service programs, employment opportunities, and schools, so they and their families can start creating the life they came here for. I would like to congratulate Mayor Bill de Blasio and Commissioner Nisha Agarwal for launching this successful program.”

“New York City is a melting pot of cultures and languages, and IDNYC has given many in the immigrant community a new sense of belonging and a practical legal form of identifying themselves to businesses, government and in court,” said Council Member Ben Kallos. “I look forward to hosting an IDNYC pop-up site on Roosevelt Island this October. Thank you to Mayor de Blasio for his leadership and commitment to growing IDNYC so all New Yorkers can have equal access to our great city.”

“IDNYC is an important asset for immigrant New Yorkers,” said Council Member Jumaane D. Williams. “My district has a significant immigrant community hailing from all over the Caribbean. I know having a municipal ID empowers many of them who may have not been able to acquire government identification elsewhere. As an IDNYC cardholder myself, I can attest to the benefits of the ID card. This allows all New Yorkers to feel confident in their place in the city, and opens doors that would otherwise have remained closed.”

“IDNYC plays a vital role in our efforts to create a more equitable city. We now have data to prove what many of us already realized: this card has given New Yorkers, particularly immigrants and young people, a recognized form of ID and increased their sense of safety and belonging. IDNYC holders have used their cards to apply for public assistance, visit their children’s schools, and open the doors to world renowned cultural institutions,” said Council Member Vanessa L. Gibson. “I sincerely thank Mayor Bill de Blasio and Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito for their leadership and strongly encourage New Yorkers who don’t yet have an IDNYC to take advantage of this wonderful program. As this research confirms, it’s easy!”

“The findings are clear and prove what we have been hearing for some time: IDNYC is a valuable tool that is opening doors for thousands of New Yorkers, particularly those in vulnerable and low-income communities. IDNYC has a real impact on the daily lives of residents and is a model for other cities across the country that are looking for ways to provide an accessible identification program,” said Council Member Ritchie Torres.

“I am proud to be a part of the City Council that passed the IDNYC program,” said Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez. “This card has meaningful impacts on New Yorker’' lives, helping to bring many undocumented persons out of the shadows and providing renewed dignity to trans or gender non-conforming persons. Through initiatives like IDNYC, City government is working to improve lives and facilitate easier access to services for thousands."

"This innovative program is helping our seniors, creating an inclusive environment for our City's immigrants and connecting New Yorkers with the greatest cultural institutions in the world," said Council Member Corey Johnson. "There's a reason so many New Yorkers have signed up for IDNYC in such a short period of time - it has something to offer everybody. As a proud IDNYC cardholder, I can personally attest to the value it brings. I thank Mayor de Blasio and the Office of Immigrant Affairs for this incredible program, and I look forward to watching IDNYC's continued success as even more New Yorkers enroll."

"There is no denying the crucial role IDNYC has played in empowering all New Yorkers. It has reduced barriers to healthcare, schools, and financial and cultural institutions for so many members of our immigrant communities, and encouraged all residents to engage in their communities and the City in a positive and valuable way. I am proud of what the program has been able to achieve throughout the five boroughs, and especially enthusiastic of IDNYC's successful participation in the 34th Council District.  I look forward to finding ways to strengthen and expand the program as well as to continue to serve as a model and inspire other cities in the nation to institute the same," said Council Member Antonio Reynoso.

“IDNYC has proven to be a valuable tool for New Yorkers, as well as a means of strengthening the sense of connection between the city and its residents,” said Kathryn S. Wylde, President and CEO of Partnership for New York City. 

“IDNYC has been a tremendous success for Latino families. In addition to providing the safety, security, and legitimacy of government-issued identification, IDNYC has done much to improve the sense of community and belonging for all New Yorkers and especially those who unfairly live in fear of revealing their legal status. When Hispanic Federation hosts phone banks to sign individuals up for IDNYC appointments, we are inundated with phone calls from thousands interested in the program, a testament to its appeal and usefulness. We are proud to have supported IDNYC from its inception, and stand strongly with the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs in continued support,” said Jose Calderon, President of the Hispanic Federation.

“IDNYC has been a resounding success for immigrant communities across New York City. IDNYC allows us to find greater equality as New Yorkers and to feel safer in our communities. It opens the doors often closed to undocumented community members without alternative access to identity documents,” said Steven Choi, Executive Director of the New York Immigration Coalition. “We are proud to have worked alongside the City Council and the Mayor’s Office to see this program become a reality, and we are happy to continue supporting outreach and awareness-building around IDNYC.”

“Over and over, we see the importance and the success of IDNYC.  All immigrants regardless of status have a vital tool that identifies them as New York City residents, which also provides a sense of security and belonging. Seventy percent of Asian New Yorkers are immigrants, with tremendous ethnic, language and cultural diversity. Asian American Federation applauds MOIA’s ongoing efforts to open pop-up sites in our diverse neighborhoods to ensure that those who most need this identification card have easy access to the application process. AAF remains a steadfast supporter of IDNYC,” said Jo-Ann Yoo, Executive Director of Asian American Federation.

“IDNYC continues to make a tremendous impact on the lives of hundreds of thousands of immigrants living in the New York City," said Ana Maria Archila, co-Executive Director of the Center for Popular Democracy. “IDNYC has set the bar for muni-ID programs, helping to spur the launch of programs in cities across the country interested in building truly welcoming and inclusive communities."

“As a community of Faith representing 80,000 New Yorkers from various faith traditions we are very pleased with the success of IDNYC. Many of our immigrant members were able to get an ID that allows them to come out of the shadows and become more fully apart of our great city. My own little brother was able to get his first ID through IDNYC and so I personally know how important this program is. New York City has continued its tradition of being a city of immigrants and a city for all through IDNYC, and the faith community applauds the success of this program,” said Onleilove Alston, Executive Director of Faith in NY. 

“IDNYC has been a huge success for Care for the Homeless clients and peer leaders. It provides a photo ID at no charge, which is generally accepted in the city, for vulnerable people in often unstable circumstances who often lose their documents. It’s opened up wonderful cultural, educational and entertainment opportunities many New Yorkers otherwise wouldn’t have access to. We love IDNYC,” said Jeff Foreman, Policy Director of Care for the Homeless of NYC.

“Make the Road New York has been a proud partner of IDNYC from the conception of the idea through the launch, as a partner and as host of two wildly successful enrollment centers,” said Make the Road New York co-Executive Director Javier H. Valdés. “We have been thrilled to witness first-hand IDNYC’s success in helping immigrants – undocumented and documented – become more involved in their communities and their city.”

"One of Catholic Charities' core commitments is to welcome New York's immigrants – be they families seeking to reunify, refugees, the undocumented, or workers--in a way that upholds their dignity and recognizes the value they bring to our communities of work, of family, and of faith. Each day we strive to build a sense of safety, well-being, and belonging to newcomers in need. The IDNYC has become an essential part of this work, a first step in the hard process of transforming their lives and tangible proof that they belong and have dreams that they can realize,” said C. Mario Russell, Director, Immigrant and Refugee Services, Catholic Charities, NY.

IDNYC is changing lives. For transgender and gender non-conforming New Yorkers, the option to self-attest one’s gender – to have identification that reflects their true gender identity without invasive medical procedures or burdensome paperwork requirements – is life changing. With this card, people can enter a building, a courtroom, obtain a library card, or access healthcare, without fearing abuse, invasive questioning or rejection because their identification does not conform to their perceived gender,” said  Heather L. Betz, Supervising Attorney of the New York Legal Assistance Group LGBTQ Law Project.



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