Census: We Care. We Count.
February 26, 2020
The 2020 Census is coming. We all must participate because we can’t afford not to.
The 2020 Census is fast approaching, and I can’t overstate the importance of your participation.
When you and your family members are counted, you help to make sure that $675 BILLION in federal money is distributed fairly. At stake is funding for our schools, roads, public transportation systems, emergency readiness needs, and healthcare institutions, including hospitals, nursing homes, homecare agencies, and clinics.
Your census response helps shape public policy, ensure our representation in government, and build more inclusive, empowered communities. Results are used to determine how many seats each state gets in our U.S. House of Representatives. With the relentless attack on our voting rights through purges and politically motivated redistricting, it’s imperative that you and everyone you know participates in the 2020 Census.
Efforts to marginalize and limit our communities are no secret. Our interests are too often overshadowed by those of corporations and the wealthy. The 2020 Census is an opportunity for us to make sure we are fully represented, and our needs are considered by our representatives and other powerful decision makers.
Participating in the 2020 Census is fast, easy, and confidential. There are no questions about immigration status, and your responses are safe, secure, and protected by law. The U.S. Census Bureau cannot release any identifiable information about households, individuals, or businesses—even to law enforcement agencies. And 1199 will do everything in our power to ensure that the U.S. Census is conducted safely and fairly. In the coming weeks and months, you’ll receive information about how to respond to the 2020 Census, including online or by mail. You can also go to www.2020Census.gov to learn more. Our Union has joined a host of partners in outreach efforts. Keep an eye out for meetings and information.
In the meantime, remember that we need you, your neighbors, and your co-workers to participate. We’re counting on you to stand up and be counted!
1199SEIU President George Gresham
- 1199 Magazine: January / February 2020