Each decade we are compelled to participate in the national census. The census is mandated by the U.S. Constitution in Article 1, Section 2. The U.S. has counted its population every 10 years since 1790. Yes, that is 230 years and counting!
The U.S. census helps determine how hundreds of billions of dollars in federal funding flow into communities. Over the next ten years, that funding will shape many different aspects of our communities, no matter the size, no matter the location.
Today, January 21, 2020, the U.S. Census officially kicks off in Toksook Bay, Alaska. The early start makes sure remote villages and communities are counted in advance of spring thaws. In mid-March, homes across the country will begin receiving invitations to complete the 2020 Census. You will be able to respond for your home in one of three ways: online, by phone, or by mail. When you respond to the census, you’ll tell the Census Bureau where you live as of April 1, 2020. As of today, we have 70 days to Census Day, April 1, 2020.
Massive Undertaking
This massive undertaking results in the Census Bureau delivering apportionment counts to the President and Congress in December 2020 as required by law. In early 2021, the Census Bureau sends redistricting counts to states. This information is used to redraw legislative districts based on population changes.
Value to Business
The 2020 Census is also valuable to businesses and marketers, as the results provide a rich set of data on the communities they serve, including population trends and growth projections. Business owners like us rely on census results to make decisions, such as where to open new stores, restaurants, factories, or offices, where to expand operations, where to recruit employees, and which products and services to offer.
Be part of the 2020 Census, your voice makes a difference.