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February 2010 |
What's the Big Deal? The Purpose of the Census Did you know that when the first census was taken in 1790, there were fewer people living in the United States than there are living in Los Angeles today? This is the kind of information the census gives to national, state, and local governments. They use it to make political, economic, and social decisions that affect Americans. In order to stay on top of what is happening in the United States, our forefathers made a law that every person in the 50 states and Puerto Rico must be counted regularly. So every 10 years since 1790, a census has been taken. This year it happens in March. why is the census important? The 2010 census form has 10 questions. When answered, the data gives the government information about how to divide $400 billion in funding among communities for roads, hospitals, schools, etc. The total number of people in each state determines how many seats the state has in the House of Representatives. You could say the census is your community's voice in government. When you or your family receives the form in March, you or your parents must complete and return it. If the forms are not returned, census takers will come to the door to ask the questions. The census form sent to homes is clearly marked as coming from the U.S. Census Bureau. It is safe to answer the questions. None of the questions ask for private information. Your responses will be used for positive changes in your community. It will also help states redistrict (adjust the boundaries of the districts used to elect public officials) to take into account population shifts. do your part Once the information from the forms is tallied, the results will go to President Obama in December. So, when your census form arrives in the mail, make sure you or your family responds and returns it. Your country, state, and community depend on accurate responses to the questions. Your participation isn't just important; it's the law.
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