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It is time to brush up on your counting skills. The U.S. Census Bureau is gearing up for the 2010 Census. The data that is collected will provide what is often called the “portrait of America.” The Minnesota State Demographic Center is charged with completing the census in Minnesota. The U.S. Constitution calls for an actual count of the population every 10 years. The 2010 Census starts in earnest this month with the delivery of census forms. For those who receive mail at their home they will receive a form in the mail, for those who receive their mail at a P.O. Box a census bureau staffer will visit your home to hand deliver a form.
This year only the short census form will be used, in the past there were both short and long forms. This is part of an effort to get more people to participate in the census, especially in Minnesota where this census could drastically change our political landscape. After the census results are compiled they will be used to reportion representation in Congress, Minnesota is close to loosing a Representative which would mean major redistricting across the state.
Barbara Ronningen, a demographer with the State Demographpic Center, is fairly confident that we will meet the threshold to keep all 8 of our U.S. Representatives saying "that other states might grow faster but we count better." In fact during the last census in 2000, Minnesota tied with Iowa for the highest participation rate in the country. The goal is to have about 80% of the population participate in the census, meaning one in five will not be counted. People have various reasons for not participating in the census but for most who refuse it all comes down to fear. Specifically fear of how the information will be used, Barbara wanted to assure all who are concerned that the data is completely confidential saying that, "even President Barack Obama can not see your census form." The personal data on the census form will be kept confidential for 72 years the most recent data that is publicly available is from 1930.
There are sure to be some people who will try to use the census for their own good, Barbara cautioned that the Census Bureau will never contact you by email and they will not ask you for your social security number, your income, or your immigration status.
If you are not able to return your form by April 1st you are asked to do so as soon as possible. For those who have more than one home you are asked to fill out the form at what you consider to be your permanent residence. If you have any more questions about the census you can click here. |