Congressman Dan Kildee Encourages Michiganders to Complete 2020 Census

April 1st is National Census Day

Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, released a new video on National Census Day encouraging all Michiganders to participate in the 2020 Census.

“People ask me what they can do to make a difference right now in our community. There’s one way right now that you can make a real difference, and that’s by participating in the 2020 Census,” Congressman Kildee said. “Each year, based on the Census, hundreds of billions of dollars is divided amongst communities like Flint, Saginaw, Bay City and Oscoda. That means critical investments in local schools, housing, health clinics and neighborhood programs—all because of the Census. Unfortunately, a lot of us aren’t counted. And it’s on us to change that,” Congressman Kildee continued.

A transcript of Congressman Kildee’s video remarks are below:

Hi, I’m Congressman Dan Kildee.

I’m honored every day to represent Michigan’s Fifth Congressional District in Congress. Often, people ask me what they can do to make a difference in our community. There’s one way right now that you can make a real difference: by participating in the 2020 Census.

The Census isn’t just a population count for America. It’s important for so many other reasons: It directly impacts your representation in government. It also decides how resources are allocated to communities. Each year, based on the Census, hundreds of billions of dollars is divided amongst communities like Flint, Saginaw, Bay City and Oscoda. That means critical investments in local schools, housing, health clinics and neighborhood programs—all because of the Census. 

Unfortunately, a lot of us aren’t counted. And it’s on us to change that. When we aren’t counted, our communities don’t get their fair share. For each person that isn’t counted, mid-Michigan could lose up to $20,000 per person!

Here’s what you can do to help: when a postcard from the Census comes in the mail, fill it out. Don’t throw it away. If you want, you can even do it online! Either way, it will only take a few minutes. And when you fill out the Census, make sure to count everyone—including any children.

The Census is a huge opportunity for all of us to make a positive impact on our community.

I hope you’ll join me today to make a pledge to be counted. There’s too much at stake not to.

To learn more about the Census, visit www.census.gov.

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