Every American counts—including both citizens and noncitizens, according to the United States Census Bureau.
Census Bureau 2010 representatives recently hit the road to raise public awareness about the recount of the population, which happens every 10 years. They are visiting school campuses and community centers throughout the U.S.
Last month a group of Census representatives came to the University of Oregon campus to distribute informational pamphlets and memorabilia. The purpose of the Census, which began in 1790, is to gather statistical information regarding citizens so that it is easier to make important decisions, such as the amount of Medicaid the State of Oregon will receive.
Henry Cualio, an employee of the U.S. Census Bureau 2010, said, “We are here in Oregon to reach out to the citizens and let them know about the upcoming census. We want every person counted in order to allocate appropriate amounts of money from the government for funding schools, hospitals, and determine the number of seats Oregon will have in the House of Representatives.”
April 1 is National Census Day and citizens will be required to fill out 10 questions regarding 
address, race, gender, age, etc. Eugene residents should be receiving their questionnaires at this time. The proposed date of the distribution is mid-March. Forms may be received through U.S. mail or hand delivery.
After April 1, U.S. Census Bureau officials will be going door-to-door to remind citizens to fill out their questionnaire if they have not already done so. Officials will be wearing government-issued badges to identify their purpose. The badges will include a name and photo identification so that Eugene residents can discern between government officials and scammers. If citizens feel that a “Census representative“ appears to be illegitimate, they should report it to Eugene Police Department.
“Our motto is: It’s easy, it’s safe, it’s important,” says Iverson.
If you have not received your questionnaire by April 1, please call the Telephone Questionnaire Assistance center at 1.866.872.6868 or visit the U.S. Census Bureau.
All information provided in the questionnaire will be kept strictly confidential and will not be shared with any other government agency according to Title 13 of the U.S. Code.
“It’s a short 10-minute questionnaire that will help our nation grow,” said Jerry Iverson, a U.S. Census Bureau 2010 employee.
Amber Shively is a junior at the University of Oregon majoring in advertising and public relations. She is also the executive officer on the advertising board for the student-run television show DuckU. You can follow Amber on Twitter.
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