The Census happens once at the start of every decade to gain an accurate count of every resident in the United States. There are many misunderstandings and myths about why the Census is taken and its importance, which in part caused an estimated 1 million children under 5 years of age to not be counted in the 2010 Census.
What Is True Regarding the Census 2020 Results?
- Census results are CONFIDENTIAL. Your responses will be safe, secure, and protected by federal law. Answers can only be used to produce statistics — they cannot be used against you in any way.
- Data from the Census WILL NOT be shared with immigration enforcement agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or law enforcement agencies like the police or FBI.
- Census information will not be used to determine eligibility for government benefits.
- Everyone should be counted, including new babies and all residents, even if they are not U.S. citizens.
- Filling out the Census only takes about 10 minutes. It can be done online, over the phone, or by mail.
- The 2020 Census is available in 13 languages. Language guides will also be available in 59 languages other than English.
Why Should You Be Counted and Encourage Your Family and Neighbors to Participate Too?
- The Census aims to produce an accurate population and household count that is the basis for making sure each state gets fair representation in Congress.
- It enables our state officials to use the results to redraw the boundaries of their congressional and state legislative districts.
- The Census aids in determining the distribution of $675 billion in federal funds that support state, county, and local programs such as child care, housing, education, transportation, employment, health care, the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), and the National School Lunch Program.
What Communities Are Hard to Count?
- Non-English-speaking residents.
- Recent immigrants, including those who are in the country illegally.
- Children living in large, multi-generational households or ones that include extended or several families.
- Children who split time between two homes such as in divorced families.
- Children who live in lower-income households.
- Young parents, single moms, and their children.
Have more questions about the Census or want to know how you can help ensure an accurate count? Check out the resources below.
More Information: