How The Coronavirus Is Affecting The 2020 Census Count
Associated Press
The 2020 US Census is around the corner and Illinois residents can participate online, by mail and over the phone.
The census has been redesigned in the last 10 years so there will be multiple ways to respond without risking infection, census experts say.
Anita Banerji, the director of Forefront’s Democracy Initiative, an Illinois nonprofit that does census outreach throughout the state, said it is essential to make sure that people are getting accurately counted.
“Illinois is one of three states with the most to lose in this upcoming census. Illinois has congressional representation at stake, federal dollars and accurate data so that we could provide for a better future.”
The census does not ask questions regarding religion or immigration status.
“The telephone is a very trusted resource this time around that we didn’t have in 2010. So certainly, folks can respond to up, I believe, 12 languages outside of English,” Banerji said.
The cities of Champaign and Urbana are hosting a kickoff event and the Urbana Neighborhood Connections Center. The event starts at 2 p.m. and activities and refreshments will be provided.
Guests: Anita Banerji the Director of Forefront’s Democracy Initiative. D’Vera Cohn, senior writer and editor with Pew Research Center.
Prepared for web by WILL intern Tatianna Perry.