Why We Must Participate in the Census
By Kirk Clay, NAACP Director of Civic Engagement
This spring, the NAACP will launch Yes We Count, a campaign to make sure that every American participates in the U.S. Census. Every 10 years, the U.S. government conducts a survey of the population by sending a short questionnaire by mail to every household in the country. While low-income families and communities of color stand the most to benefit from the Census count, they are often less likely to participate.
Participation is crucial, particularly for vulnerable communities. Every person counted-or not counted-in a community impacts ten years of federal funds, political representation, public infrastructure and private investment. Here is what is at stake:
• Federal Funds: For each 100 people not counted, a community risks losing an estimated $1.2 million over the next decade for federally funded programs including: Medicaid, public housing assistance, child health programs, Head Start, transit programs, and more.
• Political Representation: States use census numbers to redraw all political boundaries and determine which states gain or lose representation, including Congressional Districts, state house and senate districts for city councils, school committees and county board.
• Public Infrastructure: All levels of government rely on census numbers to locate vital public works like schools, health centers, public transportation, highways, and affordable housing.
• Private Investment: Businesses large and small use census numbers to identify new markets, select sites for operations, make investment decisions and determine the goods and services offered.
When families do not participate in the census, it means their communities lose access to money, resources and power. In the weeks ahead we will bring you more information on how you can get involved. Together, we can make sure all Americans count.
The Alachua County Branch (Florida) is committed to these efforts. Thank you for this blog.
Comment by Michael Bowie — January 15, 2010 @ 8:40 am
We are cranking up the momentum for Census 2010 in Okaloosa County and hope to ahve info on our website next week. Is it possible to get the video linked on this site/blog to help spread the word. The Blog is GREAT!!!
Comment by Ray — January 15, 2010 @ 9:43 am
The DC NAACP is geared up for “Make King Count Day”. Thanks for all your hard work Kirk!!!
Comment by Aba Tyus — January 15, 2010 @ 10:47 am
Every one is colored. You are brown and tan , there are pink and pastel.
No one is white and black.
We all should ensure if a term african american hispanic, indian american , american indian , arab american is used it is high time we use irish american welsh american german american scot american in day to day address.
the census is for only american.
Comment by ramadurai — January 15, 2010 @ 10:50 am
Awareness is critical in choosing a race for the Census. Previously, our children of mixed race would choose ‘other’. They are educated now and know to choose ‘black’.
Comment by Kristina Hester — January 15, 2010 @ 10:54 am
Is there any compensation for the NAACP’s work for the CENSUS? Participants from Muscogee County, Columbus, GA are given hourly wages for their work.
Comment by Margaret Jenkins — January 15, 2010 @ 12:04 pm
The Okaloosa County Branch NAACP understands the importance of being counted and like our friends in the Alachua County Branch, we are committed to these efforts as well.
Comment by Sabu Williams — January 15, 2010 @ 12:54 pm
Keep up the good work. Lakeview will be counted!!! Thanks.
Comment by Bea Bayley — January 15, 2010 @ 1:31 pm
Looking for ways to help us understand that this year is very important. What we do or do not do will effect so many in the future. Get the word out,Get counted RIGHT
Comment by Anthony Franklin — January 15, 2010 @ 5:21 pm
Kirk,
What an AWESOME presentation! Keep up the great work. The Fayette County, Ga Branch is committed to supporting the Census2010. At it’s MLK, Jr program, the Census DVD will be shown and postcard flyers will be distributed.
Comment by Phyllis Blake — January 15, 2010 @ 11:23 pm
Now, if only you guys will put this much effort into stopping black crime, the world might be a better place
Comment by Daniel — January 16, 2010 @ 2:32 pm
Good job Kirk. The New London NAACP Branch will hold a “Make King Day Count” event on Monday, January 18th. This event will be held at the Radisson, New London from 8 am - 4:30 pm. Census Job test will be given. along with training and education workshops. Call 860 439-1423 or unit2010@naacp.org. Thanks again for your help.
Comment by Stephanie P. Brown — January 16, 2010 @ 6:41 pm
My local chapter is involved as well. Is there any initiative to have regional branches work together in concerted outreach to assist with the census? It would also help if you could link info on the local branches, such as website addresses, from the naacp.org page so it is easier for people to find their local chapters.
Comment by Jamila — January 16, 2010 @ 7:59 pm
Cogent arguments. I made remarks using them at the Dr. MLK breakfast Friday in Homestead Fl. and got favorable comments. I was amaazed at the relatively few of our palm cards which were on the ground after the Homestead Parade Sat.
Brad Brown Miami-Dade
Comment by Brad Brown — January 17, 2010 @ 6:32 pm
What are the top 3 things we can do ( as members and as branches) to support the Haitian relief effort?
Comment by Euene D. Kinlow — January 19, 2010 @ 3:26 pm
True to their word I saw the Census commercials aired on MLK Day, the Lakeland, FL (Polk County) branch is getting the word out - BE COUNTED.
PS We have not received the Palm cards.
Thanks,
Tracey D. Humphries
Comment by Tracey Humphries — January 20, 2010 @ 10:09 am
With so much happening on a daily basis it is sometimes easy to forget about something that does not appear to be critical. But, it is important that we realize that the census is critical to the future of our communities. Thank you Kirk for your leadership in this iniative. Indiana is on board and you can Count us and Count us in!
Comment by Barbara Bolling — January 20, 2010 @ 8:21 pm
Keep up the good work Kirk.
Comment by Mario Middleton — January 21, 2010 @ 6:37 pm
This information is vital and necessary, thanks Kirk.
Comment by Natalie — January 22, 2010 @ 2:35 pm
Kirk,
As a tier 1 state, Illinois is definitely on board with the “Yes We Count” campaign. From the capital city of Springfield, to the largest communities in Chicago, Illinois is in full effect and doing our part. Thanks for your help!
Comment by Barbara Jones — January 31, 2010 @ 7:19 pm
Kirk,
Great work! It is important to get this information to our communities and the NAACP is at the forefront of making it happen!
Thank you!
Comment by Robin Williams — March 18, 2010 @ 12:58 pm