2020 Census: Caribbeans Count Campaign
What is the 2020 Census?
The goal of the census is to count every person living in the United States once, only once, and in the right place. Article I, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution mandates that this population and housing count occur every 10 years. Census data guide how more than $675 billion of federal funding is distributed yearly to states and communities.
The Caribbean Equality Project’s “Caribbeans Count” 2020 Census campaign aims to educate hard-to-count Caribbean-American and Caribbean immigrant communities throughout New York City. This includes counting and educating black and brown Caribbean LGBTQ+ immigrants, undocumented Caribbean immigrants, Caribbean Americans, and diverse Caribbean faith-based communities on how the 2020 Census impacts funding for infrastructure, community-based organizations, education, public health, congressional representation, and so much more.
To ensure Queer and trans immigrants and LGBTQ+ families participates in the 2020 Census, Caribbean Equality Project organized workshops, conducted street canvassing, launched culturally-responsive educational campaigns, and amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, reached more than 15,000 community members through food pantries, digital marketing, virtual events, and text and phone banking.
For the first time in history, the 2020 Census counts same-sex households. It is deeply unacceptable that the Census does not offer gender responses beyond the male and female binary. However, it is essential to note that the U.S. Census Bureau will accept forms in which the gender question is skipped.
Even though the 2020 Census does not represent the full spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community's lives and experiences, we energized our community across New York City to participate so we can receive our fair share. Hundreds of billions of dollars are on the line, including funds for many programs that directly support the LGBTQ+ community, including job programs, housing, education, senior centers, and HIV prevention & treatment programs.
It's quick and easy. The 2020 Census questionnaire will take about 10 minutes to complete.
It's safe, secure, and confidential. Your information and privacy are protected.
There is no citizenship question on the 2020 Census, and it does not ask for your immigration status.
Your response helps to direct billions of dollars in federal funds to local communities for schools, roads, and other public services.
Results from the 2020 Census will determine the number of seats each state has in Congress and your political representation at all levels of government.
To complete the 2020 Census, visit my2020census.gov.
Am I required to respond to the 2020 Census?
Yes, you are required by law to respond to the 2020 Census (Title 13, U.S. Code, Sections 141 and 193).
Are my answers confidential and private?
Yes. The Census Bureau is required by law to protect your information. The Census Bureau is not permitted to publicly release your responses in a way that could identify you or your household. Per the Federal Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2015, your data are protected from cybersecurity risks by screening the systems that transmit your data. All web data submissions are encrypted to protect your privacy.
To learn more about the 2020 Census, click here.
In response to the federal government cutting the crucial door-knocking efforts for the 2020 Census by an entire month, the Caribbean Equality Project produced a historic and inclusive Caribbean-centered Census digital outreach video titled "Caribbeans Count." The video features educational messages from Caribbean politicians, LGBTQ leaders, gender justice activists, community organizers, faith leaders, and Caribbean cultural performers on the importance of completing the 2020 Census. The video also highlights Caribbean neighborhoods in NYC, iconic landmarks of the five boroughs, Caribbean-owned small businesses, cultural parades, music, and festivals. Take pride in being counted here: my2020census.gov.
