New Mexico's Motor Vehicles Division (MVD) has been refusing to issue driver's licenses and non-driver photo identification cards to so-called "illiterate" Navajo speakers. Both types of photo ID cards are used for voting and other functions where one must present proof of identity.
MVD Bureau Chief Aurora Lopez is forbidding agents from reading license application questions to Native Americans who only speak the Navajo language, saying, "We are not able to issue license [sic] for illiterates."
Traditional Navajo speakers are United States citizens with the same rights as English speakers. They should not be forced to demonstrate knowledge of a language used outside their community and experience. Please sign the petition to urge New Mexico to stop refusing IDs to Navajo speakers!
We, the undersigned, are concerned about New Mexico's refusal to issue ID cards -- necessary for driving, voting and other significant activities -- to Navajo speakers.
We understand that MVD Bureau Chief Aurora Lopez is forbidding agents from reading license application questions to Native Americans who only speak the Navajo language, saying, "We are not able to issue license [sic] for illiterates."
Traditional Navajo speakers are United States citizens with the same rights as English speakers. They should not be forced to demonstrate knowledge of a language used outside their community and experience. We respectfully urge you to stop refusing IDs to Navajo speakers. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider our petition.
