The most important headcount
by Michael Choe | Jan. 21, 2020
What is the census? Why is it important? And who should participate? Many of us don’t fully realize the importance of the census, and some have never even heard of it.
On Jan. 14, 2020, a census rally was held at the State Capitol in collaboration with Hawaii Executive Conference, Pacific Resource Partnership, Hawaii Community Foundation, Hawaii Government Complete Count Committee, and the U.S. Census Bureau. The rally, “All in For a Better Hawaii,” focused on the impact of an accurate (or inaccurate) headcount and encouraged everybody to be “all in” and commit to completing their registration for the 2020 census. Several Hawaiian Electric employees, including myself, went “all in” and the company hosted a booth with information on emergency preparedness.
What is the census?
The census is a count of every resident in the United States that is taken once every ten years. The government depends on the census to quantify the population in a specific area and make decisions based on that information.
What’s in it for us?
One example of how the census affects us is that it determines how many congressional seats our state will have. But it isn’t just the federal government that uses the data — our state government, community organizations and businesses all make impactful choices based on census counts. The information can be used to determine the amount of funds distributed, develop programs, plan for construction projects and new public facilities, and more. First responders and emergency planners such as Hawaiian Electric utilize maps and data based off the latest census to plan for unexpected disasters like hurricanes. In the event of an emergency, you definitely want to be accounted for.
What happens if we don’t participate?
The census is mandatory for all residents of the United States. If one fails to complete the form, the government will make multiple attempts to contact that person through various methods such as mail, phone call, or even an in-person visit. In some cases, a fine may even be issued.
Even if you aren’t approached or fined, it’s in your best interest to complete your census form. As Gov. David Ige stated during the rally, “Every individual not counted is a lost dollar and a lost opportunity for us here in this community, and that impact will be felt for the next decade.”
How do I register in the upcoming census?
In March 2020, every address in the U.S. will receive a letter and a registration form for each person living at that address. Following the instructions on the form, you can sign up using one of three different methods: mail, phone call, or online.
With about two months left, you can ensure that you don’t forget and are accounted for with reminder alerts from Hawaii Community Foundation’s new alert system. All you need to do is text “OHANA” to 808–650–7744. You can also stay connected by downloading and utilizing Pacific Resource Partnership’s free mobile app, Kakou.
The census is your way of saying “I’m here,” and helping all of Hawaii receive the resources it not only needs but deserves. This decade, don’t just consider going all in — commit to it!
Michael Choe is a digital communications and social media specialist at Hawaiian Electric.
