Being counted in the census is more important than people think. As the deadline for the 2020 census approaches, media personality and Census Ambassador Ashlee Marie Preston shares what’s at stake in the 2020 census, how COVID-19 is affecting the campaign, and the importance of outreach to African American communities during this time.
Over the years, many members of the black community have not participated in the census. As a result, communities with large populations of black people have not received the proper funding for resources.
In the last census, more than 9% of black Americans were not counted.
Responding to the census helps direct billions of dollars in federal funds to local communities for schools, roads, and other public services. Results will also be used to determine the number of seats each state has in Congress and political representation at all levels of government.
This time around, countless organizations and advocates like Preston are making it their business to encourage people to get counted. Preston also shares how people can stay politically engaged amid COVID-19 and beyond the census as the 2020 presidential election approaches.
What’s at Stake
Related: African American Organizations Join Forces For 2020 Census Campaign
The census questionnaire is available online, by phone, or by mail. The 2020 census questionnaire takes about 10 minutes to complete depending on the number of people in your household. If you have not received a questionnaire in the mail, you can be counted online. The information that you submit online is privacy protected.
What you need to know before you get started:
- You must complete your questionnaire once you begin. If you leave the questionnaire and return later, you will have to start over.
- Do not use the web browser buttons (back, forward, or close browser). Use the buttons within the questionnaire to navigate.
- For best results, use the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer, or Safari. Enable cookies.
To be counted in the census, click here. To learn more about how COVID is impacting the black community, click here.