SYLACAUGA, Ala. – Low census engagement may lead to tough ramifications for the state that will influence the future.
Alabama needs its citizens to play their part. The state needs to at least reach 72% participation, according to the governor’s office. If the state’s count falls shy of the 72% recorded last decade, the state would likely experience reduced representation in Congress, the loss of millions of dollars in Census-derived community funding, and reduced economic development opportunities.
“It is an unprecedented time in Alabama; however, we must remain committed to Census participation,” said Gov. Ivey. “The COVID-19 pandemic shows the importance of state representation on a national level. If we lose a representative due to a low Census count, that would mean one less voice advocating for Alabama’s needs during critical times in the future.”
Ivey said she understands people’s minds are distracted by the COVID-19 pandemic which has taken the state and nation by storm, but uttered the importance of this population count.
“Though the hearts and minds of Alabamians rests on the unprecedented health emergency we are currently battling, we must remember that our Census results are vital to our collective future,” said Kenneth Boswell, Alabama Counts! chairman and director of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. “Furthermore, responding now will minimize the need for the Census Bureau to send Census takers out into communities to follow up once restrictions are lifted.”
Alabamians can participate in the 10-question Census online at www.my2020Census.gov, by phone at 1-844-330-2020 or by paper form — all without coming into contact with a Census taker. All participants’ information is protected by strict federal law.
Due to COVID-19, the U.S. Census Bureau has formally announced adjustments to its original Census 2020 timeline, and Gov. Ivey and Chairman Boswell are in close contact with representatives monitoring the situation daily.
“Census participation is not merely a count; it’s a roadmap for our future. Now more than ever, the urgency of an accurate count is vital to Alabama,” added Gov. Ivey. “Help us create a future for Alabama that is one with proper consideration in times like this. Please fill out your Census today — our future depends on it.”
