Here's what you can do today to help ensure a complete count in 2030.
The US Census is more than a population count every 10 years. Together, the decennial census, American Community Survey, and other US Census Bureau business and household surveys form an ongoing project to tell the story of who we are as Americans and New Yorkers and to allocate resources and representation equitably. With opportunities for advocacy and raising awareness happening year-round, it’s never too early or too late to empower your community or organization with resources to better understand the impact of the US Census and census data.
Check out our latest resources to begin advocating and raising awareness around the US Census starting now.
How the Census guides apportionment of political representation.
Apportionment is the process of dividing the 435 memberships, or seats, in the U.S. House of Representatives among the 50 states. At the conclusion of each decennial census, the results are used to calculate the number of seats to which each state is entitled.
Did you know the U.S. Census Bureau is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce?
The Department of Commerce’s mission is to create the conditions for economic growth and opportunity for all communities, and the federal government relies on accurate, complete Census counts to fund opportunities where we live.
Why the Census Matters
The Museum of the City of New York has a useful graphic showing federal investment into crucial social services programs based on Census responses. While this graphic is specifically for the area around New York City, the same kinds of programs all across New York State rely on Census responses for funding.
Are you looking for data on what families and households have experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic?
The Household Pulse Surveys have data stretching from access to infant formula to employment, food security, and more.
Are you wondering which communities and neighborhoods have helped children rise out of poverty?
Explore the “Opportunity Atlas” map.
Are you looking for data on poverty in your community?
Explore this Census Poverty Data Tool.
American Community Survey (ACS) highlights needs in our communities
Whether you are Champion-ing a living wage, environmental health, fair housing, or any of the pressing needs for our people and our communities, the Census’ American Community Survey data tools can shed light on issues and challenges.
“Improving the Census” Policy Recommendations from the Brennan Center for Justice
The census has struggled to fulfill its vital functions. This paper sets forth a blueprint for reforming the law and policy of the decennial population count with 19 proposals to make future censuses more accurate, equitable, and legitimate.
For the Love of Data: How Census Data Drives Decision-Making
A Webinar Hosted by the New York State Census Equity Fund. What will you learn? Innovative ways in which various entities have made use of recently released Census 2020 data to inform funders, advocates, community organizations, service providers, and businesses…and much, much more.
Lessons for Philanthropy From the 2020 Census
Not only did the pandemic make it unusually difficult to conduct a fair and accurate count but the political environment presented obstacles in ways that could have left out many people of color, children, people in tribal communities, immigrants, low-income families, and others who have historically been missed.