Why Does the Census Matter?

This information was collected by Samantha Jacobson and Jennifer Reres on November 21, 2019 from an event hosted by New York City Black Women’s Political Club in partnership with the NAACP, The Center for Law and Social Justice at Medgar Evers College, and the U.S. Census Bureau.

How can you fill out the census?

First off, you can fill out the form online, by phone, or by mail. Otherwise, a census worker will knock at your door. (Answer it!)

Why is this important?

When you don't fill out your census, you will be giving up billions of dollars for you, your family, and your community.

How do you identify on the census if you don’t feel like you are represented, specifically if you are a person of color?

In the words of speakers, black is a loaded, political term. Many don't like it. But it means money will come back to your community in the form of Centers for Disease Control & Prevention research for diabetes, high blood pressure, prostate cancer, or maternal mortality.

How will filling out the census affect my community?

In the form of elected representatives advocating for you locally and in Washington. In the form of money for your children and your community schools. Don't give up that funding to those who already have power, privilege, electoral participation. Claim that money, that power, that representation for your community!

How is my census information shared?

No census information is shared with any other agencies, including ICE. A census representative compromising information will face 5 years in prison or a six-figure fine. Include everyone in your household. Everyone must be counted! Bring a census rep to your PTA meeting, church, and other central places in your community. Get your friends, your family, and your block to fill it out.

Additional information on how to fill out the census and what that means here.

For more information on why the census matters, we recommend this Forbes article, “Completing The Census Matters More Than Ever”.