The 2010 Census questionnaires are on their way to our homes and it is our responsibility to fill them out (correctly!) and mail them back. The U.S. Constitutions dictates that a census of the population is taken every 10 years to ensure that an up-to-date count of all citizens and non-citizens is done. The federal government uses Census results to help determine how to divide approximately $400 billion per year for the next ten years. Ideally, those neighborhoods that need the most help should be allotted the most money, and the only way to determine this is with a clear and accurate count of the nation’s population.
The U.S. Census Bureau has spent a great deal of money on advertisement to ensure that everyone is aware of the census, and that everyone participates. In fact, almost every time you turn on the radio or television, you hear the familiar slogan, “We can’t move forward until we mail it back”. Despite this effort, many people are still hesitant about participating, especially illegal immigrants and those with criminal backgrounds. Also, many of us spend too much time complaining about the state of our government, or at least know others that do. The Census is our chance to do something about it.
Our generation made such an impact in the 2008 election that named Barack Obama as the first African-American to lead our country. However, that huge milestone doesn’t mean anything if our communities remain in dismal states of inadequate schooling and hospitals, disheveled roads, and polluted parks and recreation centers. Since the results from this Census will not be updated for another ten years (when many of us will start or continue our families), it is important that we not only fill out the Census forms, but also spread the news to everyone in our neighborhoods. Future generations are depending on us to map out their well being. Complaining about a problem without taking action is pointless. Put your money where your mouth is. Fill it out…..
-Chelles
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