Denied Identity: Woman Born in Jim Crow-Era Georgia Still Fights for Birth Certificate and Real ID

As the May 7 deadline for Real ID approaches, Florida's Jessie Lovette grapples with her inability to secure one due to an absent birth certificate. Born in Georgia's segregated South, Lovette recalls her midwife-assisted birth without official documentation. Despite supporting evidence, her struggle continues, affecting her access to medical care. Lovette’s state ID expired in 2020, leaving her and her son, Derrick, in a bureaucratic dilemma. Another South Florida woman faces a similar plight, highlighting the impact of stringent ID requirements. Activism and forthcoming court hearings may offer hope for resolution.