The U.S. Census Bureau held a media briefing for reporters from the Asian communities at the local Boston Regional Census Center.  At the event, census representatives provided an overview of the 2010 Census and emphasized the importance for all community members to participate in the decennial survey.

“The Census Bureau understands the importance of reaching the Asian communities to educate them about the upcoming 2010 Census,” said Kathleen Ludgate, director of the Census Bureau’s Boston Regional Center. “This media briefing is an opportunity for us to work with local Asian media to ensure the community receives correct information about the census survey and to work toward the goal of a complete and accurate count of everyone.”

Ludgate emphasized that everyone living in the United States, regardless of legal status, are required by the U.S. Constitution to participate in the census. The information provided helps facilitate a fair share of political representation as well as determine how more than $400 billion will be allocated annually by the federal government for roads, schools, hospitals and other community services.

The Census Bureau has strict confidentiality provisions that protect the responses of those who participate. By law, Census Bureau employees cannot share information provided by respondents with any person or government agency. Every employee has taken a lifetime oath to protect the information and is subject to fines and/or jail time if any information is disclosed.

 â€œWe want to assure that any information that residents provide on their census questionnaire is tightly guarded,” said Ludgate. “We use the information provided for statistical purposes only. Any Census Bureau employee who reveals data pertinent to the 2010 Census can face a fine up to $250,000 and up to five years in jail.”

For the 2010 Census, the Census Bureau will feature one of the shortest census forms in history, with 10 questions that take about 10 minutes to answer. The form will ask for information such as name, relationship to head of household, gender, age, date of birth, race, and whether respondents own or rent their home. For those who speak limited to no English, there will be in-language assistance guides available to help them fill out their census forms.

“Our community and media partners have been instrumental in helping us get the word out about the upcoming Census,” said Ludgate. “The 10 minutes it takes to fill out the questionnaire can help bring in resources that will positively impact the community we live in.”  
For additional information about the 2010 Census and the Census Bureau, visit www.2010.census.gov.

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