Today is Census Day, the day that determines who is counted in the 2020 Census and where they are counted.
The U.S. Constitution mandates a census of the population every 10 years. Responding to the 2020 Census is easy, safe and important, and is key to shaping the future of communities. Census statistics are used to determine the number of seats each state holds in the U.S. House of Representatives and informs legislative district boundaries. They also inform how hundreds of billions of dollars in public funds are allocated by state, local and federal lawmakers to communities for public services and infrastructure like hospitals, emergency services, schools and bridges each year over the next 10 years.
36.2 percent of households across the nation have responded to the 2020 Census since invitations began arriving in mailboxes March 12-20. Response rates are updated in the map daily seven days a week so that the public can see how well their community is doing compared to the nation and other areas. Black communities are at risk of being undercounted, which means we are not completing the Census. If we do not complete the Census, millions of dollars will not be allocated to our communities for programs like Head Start, State Child Health Insurance Programs, Special Education, SNAP/Food Stamps, Foster Care, Student Loans, etc. Our children will pay the highest price for our failure not to complete the Census. We cannot afford this to happen. So, do your part.
The Census Bureau is strongly encouraging the public to respond to the 2020 Census online using a desktop computer, laptop, smartphone or tablet. You can respond online or by phone in English or 12 other languages. There are also 59 non-English language guides and videos (plus American Sign Language) available on 2020census.gov ensuring over 99% of U.S. households can respond online in their preferred language. It has never been easier to respond on your own — all without having to meet a census taker. This is really important with the current health and safety guidance being provided by national, state and local health authorities.
Please complete your Census form online, by phone, or by mail. The results of the #Census2020 will affect community funding, congressional representation, and more. Visit https://t.co/VkZqSPbmJC for more information. #OmegaPsiPhi 🎶 #jkdstayfree pic.twitter.com/R3FF6S5wlW
— Omega Psi Phi (@OfficialOPPF) March 30, 2020
