Soon, you may start seeing advertisements about the 2020 Census. DHHSD and MNCDHH are working together to provide accessible information about the census, and why it is important.

We have created a video in both ASL and English, with English voiceover and captions, about the census.

If you are deafblind or prefer to watch the video in a slow-paced, high-contrast format, watch the deafblind-friendly ASL version instead.

What is a “census”? 

The U.S. Constitution requires a census every 10 years. A census counts the number of people in every state. These numbers are used to make many decisions.  

Why is it important to fill out the census? 

The number of people in Minnesota decides many things, including:

• How many representatives Minnesota has in the U.S. House of Representatives.
• State legislative district boundaries and school district boundaries.
• How over $675 million dollars in federal funding will be spent. This includes spending on housing programs, education and programs that support families.

Local government and businesses also use the census numbers to decide where to open new stores, hospitals, or improve transportation. 

Your answers are private!

The law says the Census Bureau must keep your information confidential. The Census Bureau cannot share details with anyone – including the White House, the government, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and police.

The law also says the details must remain confidential for 72 years. After 72 years, census records become public. Old census records are a popular tool for people researching the history of their own families. 

What will the census ask? 

The census will ask you questions about who lives at your address. See some examples of the questions on our website and in the video.

Important! The census will NOT ask you: 

• Your citizenship status.
• Your social security number
• Your bank account information. 
• Your political beliefs. 
• To give money.

Be counted! 

Our next video and email will explain how the census happens. We will also tell you about community events you can attend to learn more about the census.

Watch for our email “How, and When, to Fill Out the Census” on Thursday, January 23.

Make sure you are counted! 

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

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Minnesota Department of Human Services

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division

     

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