Chicago City Key ID Program Draws Diverse Crowd at Haitian American Museum

In a testament to Chicago’s vibrant multiculturalism, the city’s key ID program found a temporary home at the Haitian American Museum on March 29, 2024. The event attracted a diverse array of residents, including individuals from Venezuela, Haiti, and Ghana, eager to secure their new identification cards.

The initiative, aimed at providing Chicago residents with a universally accepted government-issued identification, saw enthusiastic participation from migrants representing various corners of the globe. As they patiently waited in line, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation and camaraderie.

Among those in attendance was Alejandro Ramirez, a Venezuelan migrant who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to obtain official identification in his adopted city. “Having a Chicago City Key ID opens up so many doors for us,” Ramirez remarked. “It’s not just about identification; it’s about belonging and feeling recognized in our community.”

Similarly, Haitian immigrant Marie Desrosiers emphasized the importance of the program for marginalized communities. “For many of us, this ID represents more than just a piece of plastic,” Desrosiers shared. “It signifies inclusion and access to essential services that we may have previously struggled to obtain.”

Ghanaian migrant Kwame Boateng echoed these sentiments, highlighting the program’s role in fostering integration and empowerment. “Being able to participate in events like this, where our diverse backgrounds are celebrated, reinforces the values of unity and solidarity,” Boateng stated.

The decision to host the program at the Haitian American Museum underscored Chicago’s commitment to embracing its rich cultural tapestry and providing equitable services to all residents. By bringing the ID initiative to a venue that celebrates the contributions of the Haitian diaspora, city officials hoped to foster a sense of belonging and representation among underserved communities.

As the day progressed, volunteers worked diligently to process applications and distribute IDs, ensuring that each participant left with a tangible symbol of their connection to the city. The event served as a reminder of the transformative power of inclusive policies and the enduring spirit of unity that defines Chicago’s identity.

With the success of the program at the Haitian American Museum, city leaders expressed optimism about expanding similar initiatives in collaboration with diverse cultural institutions across Chicago. As the city continues to evolve, efforts to promote accessibility and celebrate its multicultural heritage remain at the forefront of its agenda.

The Rev. Dr. Ebony D. Only Director of Human Resources