2020 Census: Important for all residents to be counted

It feels as if we've been responding to a lot of important asks from our government recently. And we're doing an admirable job responding. It's heartening to see the way the people of the Northwest are doing their part to help during what are being called unprecedented times.

Now we're being asked to do what might feel like one more thing during a stressful period – take the 2020 Census. But it's important to take note of what's being asked and recognize its impact. Participating in the 2020 Census, is both vital and a privilege for many reasons, including these three:

1) More than just a head count

The Census impacts EVERYTHING, from politics to money, helping determine where federal and state money goes for schools, hospitals and other vital services. In short, almost everything we rely on is connected to the Census.

2) Our chance to be counted

The Census only happens once a decade, so it's important to participate when we have the chance.  We're joining a long tradition of residents who have taken part including, in some cases, parents and grandparents. The 2020 Census will mark the 24th time that the country has counted its population since 1790.

3) For the future

If you don't want to do it for yourself or your community, consider being counted for your children and grandchildren, our future voters. Your participation determines the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives, and they are used to draw congressional and state legislative districts.

Participating in the Census is simple, important and provides us all the chance to make a positive difference. It's comforting to know that we can still be counted and make a difference once every 10 years.

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