Ensuring An Accurate 2020 Census Count

The 2020 census will determine—for the next 10 years—federal funding for such programs as food assistance to needy families, early childhood education for low-income children and maintenance for our bridges and roads, as well as the number of congressional seats the state has and how political districts are drawn. A low count in New York City and state could cost us one or two representatives in Congress and billions of dollars in federal aid.

New York is filled with hard to count communities, including immigrants, non-English speaking New Yorkers and children.Additionally, federal funds have been eliminated for community-based outreach programs, which in the past have bolstered participation in the census.

Citizens Union successfully advocated for the city and state to adequately fund census outreach and are working with elected officials and civic leaders to create a comprehensive outreach plan to ensure that we have an accurate census count in 2020 so that New York receives its fair share of federal resources.

Citizens Union Applauds Governor Cuomo for Allocating Funding to Count Every New Yorker in the 2020 Census

November 19, 2019 - We thank Governor Cuomo for this funding will help ensure that all New Yorkers are counted in the 2020 census.

Letters

30-day Amendments and the Census - letter to Governor 2.11.19 City Funding for Census Engagement - letter to Deputy Mayor,…

Statement from Citizens Union on Supreme Court Decision on Citizenship Question

June 27, 2019 - Today's Supreme Court decision, denying the Commerce Department's request to include a "citizenship question" on the 2020 census is a victory for democracy.

Citizens Union Applauds Mayor, City Council, for Funding Census Outreach

June 14, 2019 - Citizens Union applauds the Mayor and the City Council on funding the 2020 census.

Citizens Union Applauds Legislature for Funding Census Outreach

March 29, 2019 - Given whats at stake, $40 million for community based outreach represents an incredibly wise investment.

Labor Leaders and Politicians Blast Trump Over Census Question

“Without a complete count, federal funding for many programs will be reduced. Programs like Medicaid, supplemental nutrition programs, Medicare Part B, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, special-education grants and many more programs that affect everyone’s lives,” added Betsy Gotbaum, executive director of the Citizens Union, in a statement. “A citizenship question proposed by the federal government will frighten a significant portion of the population, particularly in immigrant communities.”