Despite the coronavirus crisis, Californians can make history in the 2020 census

Our daily life in the Golden State has been reshaped recently by COVID-19. Most of our attention is rightly fixed on staying at home to protect ourselves and other Californians.

However, while all of this could seem overwhelming, we must not lose sight of an important action that can have a long-lasting impact on our society – participating in the 2020 Census. Filling out the survey is something every Californian can do now – at this moment - from the comfort of our homes.

This is truly the most important civic event in recent history. The 2020 Census counts every person living in the United States – regardless of age, race, background or citizenship status.

The decennial census assesses how many people currently live in our communities, counties and states across the United States. Our responses to the Census will shape the course of history for at least 10 years – including our representation in state and federal government.

The Census also determines the distribution of billions of dollars in funding to support the programs and services in our very own communities, including for education, health care, housing, senior centers and public transportation. Part of that includes emergency services funding – so if ever we understood what that impact is – it is now as we face a global pandemic. As we all continue doing our part to support and protect one another, Californians must not take our eyes off the Census.

The Census has huge ramifications for our democracy. First, the count determines the balance of political power among states in the country, as the number of seats each state holds in the U.S. Congress is based on the Census population count. Second, the Census count guides local redistricting, meaning that it also determines political representation in our State Capitol. Taken together, this means that if you aren’t counted, your community will be underrepresented politically. If you want to be properly represented by elected officials that make everyday decisions that affect your life and those you love, then you must be counted.

California is the most populous state in the U.S., with nearly 40 million residents across our many counties. We have the most at stake in this Census. Should there be an undercount, our public services and funding would be at risk. In the worst-case scenario, we could miss out on billions of dollars from the federal government.

And an undercount would be more than just billions lost – it’s personal and individual. It is estimated that for every person in California who does not complete the Census, the state could lose $1,000 in funding per person per year for ten years. Our neighbors and communities rely on our participation.

Beyond services and funding, by participating in the Census, we can also take a stand in support of inclusivity – to collectively support our friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, and even strangers. This is the right time for all of us to come together, to combine our collective voices and power to show that we matter. It is of the utmost importance the 2020 Census count is a success in California.

You can respond now by phone, online or mail, with limited houses initially receiving the paper form. This nine-question survey is simple and easy to complete. Every Californian can participate online at my2020census.gov or by phone at 1-844-330-2020 (see a list of numbers here).

Don’t forget – there’s safety in answering the Census. You will not be asked about your immigration status or if you are a U.S. citizen. Your responses are protected by law – meaning responses will not be shared with anyone, including other government agencies – and must remain confidential.

Make sure your friends, family and community know about the 2020 Census. And don’t forget to count everyone in your household, including your little ones or long-term guests.

We cannot overstate the importance of this moment; one that has the potential to bring real, positive change to our communities. It’s now up to you to make history. Support California and our community by participating in the 2020 Census.