Real ID law implementation sparks concerns, New Mexico Group advocates for immigrant rights

Staff report

As the federal Real ID Act went into effect this week, concerns regarding privacy, discrimination and confusion have surfaced, particularly within immigrant communities, according to a press release from Somos Un Pueblo Unido, a New Mexico organization that “is actively working to protect the rights and dignity of undocumented immigrants in the face of these changes.”

The Real ID Act, passed in 2005, aims to standardize state-issued identification for federal purposes. However, its implementation has faced delays and pushback due to concerns about overburdening communities with documentation requirements. Effective Wednesday, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card is required for boarding a plane, although other forms of identification, like passports, will still be accepted.

Somos Un Pueblo Unido and other advocacy groups have raised several issues with the Act, including privacy concerns, potential discrimination against those who cannot meet stringent documentation requirements, and widespread fear and misinformation, particularly in immigrant communities.

Despite these challenges, Somos said it has worked to ensure undocumented immigrants in New Mexico retain the right to drive legally and live without fear. The organization helped create a two-tier licensing system in the state that aims to protect access while respecting privacy.

“Our communities stood up to xenophobia and fear-based policymaking,” said Marcela Díaz, Executive Director of Somos Un Pueblo Unido. “Because immigrant-led organizing and  our strong alliances with other groups representing New Mexicans experiencing homelessness, the elderly, Native Americans and privacy advocates,   New Mexico created a path that centers dignity, not documentation status.”

Somos Un Pueblo Unido urges New Mexicans to know their rights, noting that a Real ID is not required for driving, voting, or receiving state services. They also advise travelers to use a valid passport for domestic and international travel and to seek trusted help from the NM Motor Vehicle Division for accurate information. The organization also encourages support for immigrant-led advocacy and data protection.