Fighting for a Representative Census

On April 24, 2019, the Supreme Court of the United States heard oral arguments in cases challenging Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross' decision to add a citizenship question to the 2020 U.S. Census. Last year, the Trump administration gave a green light to adding an untested, and dangerous citizenship question to the 2020 Census-- a move that could lead to severe undercounts of communities of colors and immigrants. We don’t expect to hear a ruling until June.

The U.S. census takes place every 10 years and the data collected impacts the future of our communities. The data helps determine how more than $800 billion in federal resources will be distributed, including where schools, roads and hospitals are built, as well as providing the basis for funding for other essential programs and services. The census is also used to decide congressional representation.

We are looking for volunteers who can help with community outreach to work with our immigrant and refugee communities about the importance of the Census, and how to fill out the form. If you are interested in joining our Census Street Team, please email action@siren-bayarea.org. Together we can make a difference!