Take the 2020 Census; It’s More than a Headcount

Dillon Neibel
dneibel@lc.edu

“Data collected in the census will inform the distribution of more than $675 billion in federal funds to states and communities each year for things like infrastructure, health care, and food assistance. It’s important that we all respond to shape the future of our communities,” from the Illinois Madison County website.

The census affects many aspects of individuals lives throughout one’s community and state at large. Proper participation helps insure that everyone is accounted for under all forms of governing and can even bring about redistricting should large population shifts be recognised.

This also affects our representation for the House of Representatives, determining how many reps are needed for each state.

The census is part of the constitution, which mandates that all countrymen be accounted for. In 1790 the first census was held and has been executed every 10 years since, in accordance with its statute.

Illinois Madison Counties website stresses not just the importance of participation in the 2020 census, but also the importance of including any babies or newborns living in your home when taking it. As this determines how federal funding will be distributed for childcare programs amongst everything else.

Also take note that the census is safe in regards to one’s privacy, the Census Bureau by law can not release any information that could identify you or your household. The response is for statistical purposes only.

These statistics will shape the use of all Americans tax dollars for the next 10 years. Therefore even if you are in a temporary living arrangement the census is important.

“Census results affect planning and funding for education—including programs such as Head Start, Pell Grants, school lunches, rural education, adult education, and grants for preschool special education,” said Lewis and Clark Community College’s Media Services Manager Laura Inlow.