March 12, 2020
Learn more about our campaign, the 2020 Census, the undercount of young children, and ways you can
get involved.
A fair and accurate census count is critical to ensuring New York communities are represented in
decisions that impact their lives. The Census informs how we understand community needs, and it
determines our political representation in Washington DC, as well as federal funding that supports
critical housing, nutrition, education, and other programs children and families rely on.
We know that an estimated 70,000 New York City children were missed in the 2010 Census. Projections show
that NYC will be one of the places with the highest risk of undercounting young children in the 2020
Census.
Our message to families and our New York Community is that the 2020 Census story
will be one
where every child is counted.
Here’s a snapshot of what you need to know for the 2020 Census:
The census is safe, has 10 questions, takes 10 minutes and impacts the lives of young children for the
next 10 years.
Just a reminder, the website accepting census responses is now live at 2020Census.gov.
The census is safe has 10 questions takes 10 minutes and
impacts the lives of young children for the
next 10 years!
Starting today, March 12th, the Census Bureau letters/postcards will invite you to complete your 2020 Census form. There are three ways to respond to the 2020 Census from the comfort and safety of your own
home – online, by phone or by returning the paper questionnaire. Each mailed invitation will include a
unique Census ID you can use. But know that you do not need the ID number to complete the
Census.
A full list of language support provided by the Census Bureau can be found here.
Knowing that the Census will be conducted digitally for the first time, conversations about data privacy,
safety and security are at the forefront of concerns raised as we prepare for the 2020 Census.
It is important to reiterate that The Census Bureau, bound by Title 13 of the United States Code, has one
of the strongest confidentiality guarantees in the federal government. Government workers or others who
disclose any individual’s information can spend up to 5 years in jail or pay a fine as large as
$250,000. It is against the law for the any Census Bureau employee to disclose or publish any census or
survey information that identifies an individual or business. More information about the Census and
Confidentiality can be found here.
As we mobilize to Get Out the Count, our campaign webpages hosts a Census Resource Library (updated regularly) where you can access a selection of key materials, resources, and content geared towards ensuring every young child in your community is counted. You can access those resources here. An introductory letter is also provided highlighting some of those resources available to you. Here are some steps you can take to count young children and Get Out the Count:
If anything, talk to someone you know about the Census. You are a trusted messenger to the people and
networks in your life. Become a Census Advocate so we can Count All Children!