The Siler City Council unanimously approved on August 4 the adoption of the Faith Action ID Community ID.
“The Faith Action ID was created with the support of different organizations and churches so that for various reasons they cannot access an official identification,” said Emma Perial, member of El Centro Hispano, to Enlace Latino NC .
The Hispanic Center and the Hispanic Liaison have already conducted jcommunity identification decorations in Siler City, benefiting around 110 people per event, with support from the local police and sheriff's office. However, there was no formal agreement.
Following unanimous approval, they are now in the process of signing a memorandum of understanding with municipal authorities to formalize this collaboration.
While community ID makes it easier for residents to be recognized by local authorities and services, it has limitations and is not a substitute for official state ID.
FaithAction ID Uses:
- Law enforcement agencies
- Public libraries
- Health centers and some businesses
- Non-profit and arts and culture organizations
- Social service agencies
- To register for utility service (water, electricity, gas)
- To register for parks and recreation programs
- To enroll children in school
"The purpose of the program is to provide people with a reliable form of identification that can also be recognized by various local entities, in this case, such as the police, hospitals, sheriffs, schools, etc., and thus somewhat reduce the barriers to accessing some services," Perial said.
What are the limitations of the Faith Action ID?
The FaithAction ID is not issued by the state; it is simply a resource to help identify the community.
According to the official website of El Centro Hispano, the FaithAction ID is not valid for the following:
- Cannot be used as voter ID
- It does not entitle the holders to any benefit or social care
- It does not stop the persecution if someone participates in an activity
- It does not impact the migratory status of the individual requesting
Requirements to receive the Faith Action ID
Participants must attend an identification campaign, where they receive information on the card's benefits and limitations.
They then go through a process in which they must provide proof of identity and residency. They then sign a memorandum of understanding.
Acceptable identification documents to apply for the FaithAction ID are: Embassy ID, National ID Card, Passport or driver's license.
For proof of address, you can submit a utility bill, medical record, or other acceptable documents.
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How will community members in Siler City benefit?
Community IDs benefit those who cannot obtain official government ID.
The FaithAction ID is not only for undocumented people, but also for homeless people and trans people whose official document does not reflect their gender identity.
In the event of a traffic stop, they may present community identification. FaithAction ID as a form of identification, although this does not exempt them from receiving a traffic fine if applicable.
Those interested in applying for community identification should contact The Hispanic Center to obtain information about the next matchday.
"Our goal is for people to build bonds of trust with the authorities," Perial said.
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