Mayor de Blasio And Speaker Mark-Viverito Announce IDNYC Reaches 1 Mil

Mayor Bill de Blasio and Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito today announced that since its creation, IDNYC – the City of New York’s municipal ID program – has reached over 1 million cardholders across the five boroughs. IDNYC was created to give New Yorkers – in particular vulnerable communities like seniors, veterans, transgender and gender non-conforming New Yorkers and immigrants – an easier and better way to access City government, to open a bank account, to explore the city’s remarkable cultural institutions and to have an ID recognized by local law enforcement. To date, the program has over 1,030,000 cardholders and over 500,000 cultural memberships have been redeemed at partner institutions across the five boroughs.

“As the busiest people in the world, New Yorkers have a lot to tackle every day,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “One thing we should not have to worry about is whether we have the right form of identification to enter City buildings or to interact with local law enforcement. I’m proud to announce that for over 1 million New Yorkers, IDNYC has created a bridge between the City and its residents. IDNYC’s explosive growth has proven the value of an easy, secure form of photo ID, as well as the myriad cultural, entertainment and cost-saving benefits the card provides. Congratulations to the over 1 million New Yorkers who already have their key to the city, and I encourage any New Yorker who hasn’t yet signed up to make an appointment today.”

“Over one million New Yorkers have helped make IDNYC the largest, most successful municipal identification card program in the nation,” said Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito. “From making it easier to access City services, to offering discounts on prescription medication and membership to many of New York City’s premiere cultural institutions, IDNYC is a must have in New Yorkers’ wallets and we look forward to celebrating the next milestone in this important, wildly popular program.”

IDNYC is the country’s largest municipal ID program. Since the City launched IDNYC in January 2015, IDNYC has become a tool that every New Yorker can use to open up access to the City. As shown in the comprehensive, independent evaluation of the IDNYC program, more than half of IDNYC’s unique cardholders 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. In addition, two-thirds of seniors responded that they took advantage of IDNYC’s free and discount memberships to many of the City’s cultural institutions. IDNYC serves as a model for many municipal ID programs across the country, and as the program matures, it will continue to benefit a wide array of city residents.

“One city. One card. IDNYC tells every New Yorker, no matter where you come from, New York City is your home,” said Richard Buery, Deputy Mayor for Strategic Policy Initiatives. “For generations, this city has been a beacon to people the world over as a place to find refuge and build a better life – including my own immigrant parents and grandparents. I’m so inspired that this program to make New York a more accessible, more equitable city has reached over 1 million people and counting. It is a manifestation of that eternal New York value – everyone is welcome here!”

“Reaching over 1 million IDNYC cardholders is a testament to how New Yorkers from every walk of life have and will continue to benefit from IDNYC,” said Commissioner of Immigrant Affairs Nisha Agarwal. “Whether that is accessing free and discount memberships to our City’s great cultural institutions, opening a bank account, or having an ID recognized by City schools, agencies and the NYPD – IDNYC is the key to the City for all New Yorkers. We will celebrate this achievement by keeping the momentum going and continuing to sign up New Yorkers for IDNYC across the City.”

“The incredible success of IDNYC during the last two years is a testament to the Administration’s commitment to ensure that all those who call New York home have equal access to all this City has to offer,” said Department of Social Services Commissioner Steven Banks. “Today we celebrate that over one million New Yorkers are enjoying the many benefits of the largest municipal ID program in the nation including access to City services and many world-renowned cultural institutions.”

“New Yorkers have embraced IDNYC as a powerful symbol of solidarity, and as a practical tool for gaining greater access to everything from museums and gardens to banks and grocery stores,” said Commissioner of Cultural Affairs Tom Finkelpearl. “Thanks to our cultural partners and everyone who has contributed to the success of this vital program, we have demonstrated what it means to be a New Yorker, and the simple but profound ways we can connect with and support our neighbors.”

“The success of IDNYC in the first two years is due to an extraordinary collaboration of government agencies, elected officials, community partners and cultural institutions,” said Mindy Tarlow, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Operations.

In the last few months, IDNYC staff has redoubled outreach efforts to sign up and serve all New Yorkers. This month, we launched IDNYC On the Go!, our new mobile command center that will bring IDNYC directly to New Yorkers in all corners of the city. Through the new online application portal launched in January, New Yorkers can begin their applications through IDNYC’s website. In addition, cardholders can also now check their immunization records online with My Vaccine Record.

Having an IDNYC card can also help New Yorkers to avoid arrest or a trip to a precinct who would have otherwise been unable to provide reliable proof of their identity during interactions with the Police Department — including immigrant, young adult, homeless, and transgender New Yorkers. IDNYC is a card for all New Yorkers, from all backgrounds, and from all five boroughs.

IDNYC has a wide array of benefit partners. All City residents age 14 and above are eligible to get a municipal ID card, and enrollment is free for anyone who applies in 2017. All IDNYC applicants must have documentation that proves their identity and residency in New York City. The City will protect the confidentiality of all IDNYC card applications and never asks applicants about their immigration status. For more information on eligibility criteria, benefits, enrollment centers across the five boroughs and more, applicants can visit nyc.gov/idnyc or call 311.

“Now more than one million New Yorkers enjoy the many benefits IDNYC has to offer,” said Council Member Daniel Dromm, lead sponsor of the legislation that created the identification card. “IDNYC is fast becoming a household name. The card grants access to vital city services and a variety of specials perks, from free museum memberships to discounts on movie tickets. I urge those who have not already done so to sign up for their IDNYC appointment today.”

“The one millionth IDNYC registrant is a true testament to New York’s strong communities. IDNYC’s success brings residents greater safety and better access to City resources. The cooperation between the people and government that made our municipal ID system possible is a model for all initiatives that impact New Yorker’s lives. It’s also an example of how cities are leading the nation by building inclusive communities,” said Council Member Carlos Menchaca, Chair of the Committee on Immigration.

“This is an incredible accomplishment for our city and for the IDNYC program,” said Majority Leader Jimmy Van Bramer. “As the Chair of the Committee on Cultural Affairs and Libraries, I am proud of our city’s cultural institutions and libraries for stepping up to the plate to provide free and discounted memberships through the IDNYC program, which gives literally 1 million people access to the world renowned cultural offerings our city is known for. This is an important and substantial milestone that could not have happened without their support and collaboration.”

“Government at its best makes life better and easier, and IDNYC has reached this latest milestone because it does exactly that,” said Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer. “Establishing a local, legal form of ID has made life easier both for undocumented New Yorkers and anyone who’d rather not wait at the DMV, and providing benefits like museum memberships helps all New Yorkers take fuller advantage of the city’s cultural riches.”

“Over 1 million IDNYC sign-ups in two years is a significant milestone, with the most enrollments coming from Queens neighborhoods and communities,” Queens Borough President Melinda Katz said. “IDNYC is a valuable tool for all City residents who enroll because it helps ensure equal access to municipal services.”

“I am proud New York City is now home to the country’s largest municipal ID program, with over 1 million cardholders. Since 2015, IDNYC has granted over a million New Yorkers access to the many benefits our city has to offer, regardless of their immigration status, occupation status, age or gender identity. I applaud Mayor de Blasio and Speaker Mark-Viverito for their continued advocacy for this tremendous program, and congratulate them on this monumental achievement,” said State Senator Jose Serrano Jr.

“With more than one million cardholders, the IDNYC program has proven a life changing resource for New Yorkers, especially in our immigrant communities. This program ensures critical access to a safe and valid form of identification for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers,” said State Senator Gustavo Rivera. “I commend our City’s administration for reaching this important milestone and for its continued efforts to ensure that every New Yorker has the opportunity to secure an IDNYC municipal card.”

“IDNYC has been a transformative program for many vulnerable populations of New Yorkers, including undocumented people, the homeless, seniors, and those who do not have other forms of identification. By making it easier for these populations to access city services and other social institutions that require photo identification, the de Blasio administration has extended a welcoming hand for people on the margins of society. It is great news that one million people are now registered with IDNYC, and I hope to see this program expand well beyond that,” said State Senator Marisol Alcantara.

“Reaching the one millionth cardholder is a testament to the importance of the IDNYC program. Giving all New Yorkers access to municipal buildings and services and offering important discounts and opportunities has made a world of difference for cardholders and their families. New York State and other municipalities should look to emulate and expand on this innovative approach,” said Assemblyman Marcos A. Crespo.

“I saw first-hand the overwhelming interest in the IDNYC program when we set up an application bank in my Bronx district office. It’s no surprise that the program has been such a success, particularly among seniors for the card’s cultural discounts and other benefits, and for immigrants as a valuable official identification tool. Congratulations, and let’s keep building on that million!” said Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda.

“The city’s municipal ID card has been a wonderful success in my Brooklyn communities and especially to people without drivers licenses. IDNYC has permitted thousands of New Yorkers to access bank accounts, schools, government buildings, libraries and to identify themselves to law enforcement. Free admission to museums and other discounts have also made the cards very useful. These cards are for everyone and I urge more people to obtain them now,” said Assistant Speaker Felix W. Ortiz.

“I applaud the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs for reaching over 1 million cardholders to date,” said Assembly Member Pamela Harris. “It is vital that our youth and their families, regardless of immigration status, are able to obtain a government-issued ID. IDNYC has continued to provide vital opportunities for New York City residents to access quality healthcare and health benefits as well as giving them access to a variety of city programs.”

“I would like to congratulate Mayor Bill de Blasio and Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito on reaching this incredible milestone of over 1 million IDNYC card holders,” said Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte. “IDNYC has been a huge success on many fronts. It is the largest ID program of any city in the country; it has helped to reintroduce the residents of this city to the historic and cultural vibrancy of the city thanks to its great partnerships with our museums and cultural centers; it has provided a non-biased form of ID for many and a strong sense of belonging to our great city, which is invaluable. Through this program, our vulnerable communities can now be officially recognized. IDNYC has been and will continue to be a great benefit to all New Yorkers.”

“IDNYC has reached this important milestone because it has met a tremendous need for immigrants and other New Yorkers. From taking books out to the library to entering schools for parent-teacher conferences to taking their children to the botanical gardens, this card has helped more than one million New Yorkers access city services and cultural institutions. IDNYC has been a game-changer for our City, and it is here to stay,” said Javier H. Valdés, Co-Executive Director of Make the Road New York.

“With their IDNYC cards, one million New Yorkers are able to participate more fully in the life of this great city,” said Brooklyn Public Library President and CEO Linda E. Johnson. “We are thrilled that many cardholders have signed up for IDNYC at Brooklyn Public Library, where in addition to using their card to check out books, they can access a wide range of free programs and services to improve or even transform their lives.”

“Much like the city’s public libraries, the IDNYC program serves all New Yorkers, opening doors of opportunity and providing security, support, and access to knowledge and culture,” said New York Public Library President Tony Marx. “We have been a proud partner in this initiative from the start, and congratulate Mayor de Blasio and the city on 1 million cardholders — me included.”

“We are proud of our ongoing partnership with the City of New York and delighted to continue supporting the IDNYC program that has now surpassed 1 million cardholders. At our first home game of the 2017 Major League Soccer season, we celebrated having 1 million fans at NYCFC home games. We look forward to reaching many more milestones together, providing New Yorkers with new opportunities throughout this great city,” said New York City FC President Jon Patricof.

‘Citi Bike congratulates the City on this incredible milestone, opening up access to City services and creating peace of mind for a million New Yorkers. We are proud to be part of such an important program.” said Jules Flynn, General Manager of Citi Bike.

“New York City continues to be a draw for talented, diverse, remarkable people from around the globe and the IDNYC program makes clear the commitment to continuing in that tradition,” said Sharon Greenberger, President & CEO, YMCA of Greater New York. “The YMCA is so proud to be a partner in these efforts. Congratulations to the City and IDNY for surpassing this extraordinary milestone!”

“As a museum that is deeply committed to fostering access for all New Yorkers we are very pleased to be part of IDNYC, which has played such an important role in introducing many first time visitors to the educational and scientific resources of the American Museum of Natural History,” said Ellen V. Futter, President of the American Museum of Natural History.

“The Studio Museum is thrilled with the tremendous enthusiasm we’ve experienced from IDNYC cardholders,” said Thelma Golden, Director and Chief Curator of The Studio Museum in Harlem. “IDNYC memberships have brought new audiences with new energy and ideas, and helped us connect with neighbors in Harlem and around the city.”

“The Staten Island Museum has been a supporter of IDNYC from the start, helping to serve a broader and more diverse community. It is gratifying to see that around 80% of IDNYC members make the trip from the other boroughs to see the Museum’s new facility at Snug Harbor,” said Henryk Behnke, Vice President, External Affairs & Advancement, The Staten Island Museum.

“The Alliance of Resident Theatres/New York (A.R.T./New York) congratulates IDNYC on passing its one million cardholder milestone. The values of IDNYC are reflected in this quote from late President John F Kennedy, which is carved into stone at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC: ‘This Country Cannot Afford to be Materially Rich and Spiritually Poor.’ A.R.T./New York salutes Mayor deBlasio and IDNYC!” said Ginny Louloudes, Executive Director, Alliance of Resident Theatres/New York (A.R.T./New York).

“A few months in and the IDNYC program has already been terrific for MAD: We always seek to expand access to the Museum and have been reaching new audiences thanks to the program. We are proud to be part of the cultural institutions offering IDNYC cardholders a complimentary membership,” said Claire Laporte, Chief Communications Officer, Museum of Arts and Design.

“At Chelsea Film Festival, we support emerging filmmakers from around the world whose artful and innovative storytelling catalyses social change. IDNYC represents our values and hopes for the future where one can be respected and integrated no matter his or her origin. Through our mission, we both fight for inequality and that’s the reason why we are proud to be partners,” said Ingrid Jean-Baptiste, Chelsea Film Festival Founder & CEO.

“At our core, we believe that lifelong learning can be transformative—from opening up a new career path to enabling people to communicate in a new language. We’re thrilled to be working with IDNYC to make a wealth of incredible educational experiences accessible to over 1 million New Yorkers,” said Katie Kapler and Nihal Parthasarathi, co-founders of Coursehorse.

“Congratulations to IDNYC on this impressive milestone,” said Bill Marbach, VP of Business Development and Digital Partnerships at EBG. “Our partnership with the program has been extremely successful, and we look forward to many more years of collaboration. We are proud to partner with the program to bring all cardholders access to great offers on top travel and entertainment products.”