Hernandez Commends Chicago City Council for Approving City-Issued ID Program for Undocumented Immigrants

CHICAGO, Ill. – State Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, D-Cicero, member of the Latino Caucus, released the following statement after the Chicago City Council overwhelmingly voted to approve an ordinance that would offer undocumented immigrants, the homeless and those with a criminal record a municipal identification card:

“I believe in an inclusive and forward-thinking Illinois, and through this ordinance Chicago is reassuring our communities that it is in fact an open and welcoming city. I commend the Chicago City Council for approving the municipal ID program for undocumented immigrants. This program is an important step that will validate the dignity and worth of our state’s most marginalized communities.

“Now more than ever, it is important that we work to make sure we are improving lives of all people, and we can start by removing legal obstacles that prevent talented immigrants from fully contributing to our communities. Immigrant entrepreneurs and small business owners create jobs, pay taxes, and play an important role in Illinois’ labor force. Take for example, the predominantly Mexican-American Little Village neighborhood that I represent. It is the second-highest-grossing shopping area in the city, with roughly $900 million being spent there every year.

“Immigrant communities are living in fear because of the threats from President Trump, and it has taken the courage of local leaders, rather than those in Springfield, to reassure them that they are welcomed here. I continue to urge Gov. Rauner to speak up and take action on behalf of all immigrant families because every person should have the opportunity to contribute to the economic, social, and cultural life of Illinois regardless of where they came from.”

State Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez is a member of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus and represents the 24th District, which includes Cicero, Little Village, Berwyn, Brookfield, Riverside, and Stickney.