3 Reasons the 2020 Census matters more than ever

April 22, 2020
Categories: General News Tags: Academic Affairs, UNC Charlotte Votes

The 2020 Census counts every person living in the United States as mandated by the U.S. Constitution. The census is conducted every 10 years by the U.S. Census Bureau. Why does a complete and accurate count of the U.S. population matter now more than ever?

  1. Health and well-being resources
    The United States is experiencing a public health crisis. It is crucial to understand residential patterns in order to calculate risk and vulnerability and allocate resources accordingly. As more people are affected by COVID-19, accurate census data will enable organizations and agencies to make important decisions. In 2016, North Carolina received almost $24 billion through federal programs guided by census data. This includes money for food assistance programs, college grants and loans, student wellness and community mental health services.
  2. Political Representation
    North Carolina is on the cusp of meeting the threshold for an additional congressional seat. The census count will determine the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives, and it is used to draw congressional and state legislative districts.
  3. Data for location
    Businesses, organizations and institutions use census data to determine where to locate health clinics, transportation routes, schools and businesses. Accurate census data will enable the community to address gaps in essential and recreational services.

Completing the Census in the era of COVID-19

Visit the census page of the 49er Democracy Experience for more information, including instructions regarding residency details. Student details are listed below.
2020 census info

The 49er Democracy Experience is a dynamic, nonpartisan platform for learning about and engaging in civic life. Launched prior to the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, the 49er Democracy Experience continues as a galvanizing driver of informed citizenship: voter registration, primary and election news, volunteer opportunities and engagement with the democratic process.