| A publication of Pine Tree Legal Assistance |
[Condensed and reprinted from the U.S. Census Bureau]
The census is a count of everyone in the United States, including people of all ages, races and ethnic groups. Participating in the census is easy, important, and safe.
Easy. The 2010 Census asks 10 questions and takes only minutes to complete. The majority of households will receive a form by mail in March 2010. Special procedures will be used on many Indian reservations. Members of the community who are working with the Census Bureau will visit homes to help you fill out the form. They are asking for a small amount of time, so please speak with them.
Important. It is important that everyone participate in the census to get an accurate count of people in your community. When you fill out the Census form, you are making a statement about what resources your community needs. Census data is used to allocate resources for:
Safe. The 2010 Census is safe because, by law, the Census Bureau cannot share answers with anyone including tribal housing authorities, other federal agencies and law enforcement entities. All Census Bureau employees are sworn to secrecy for life to protect the confidentiality of the data. The penalty for unlawful disclosure is a fine of up to $250,000 or imprisonment of up to five years, or both.
This April, the 2010 Census will take a snapshot of everyone residing in the United States, regardless of age, race, or immigration status. Fill out the Census. Be counted as part of the diverse and growing population of the United States of America.
For further information about 2010 Census operations and activities visit www.2010census.gov or contact the Census Bureau at Boston.PDSP@census.gov or 617-223-3610. Also, you can contact David A. Slagger, Maine Tribal Partnership Specialist, by phone at 207-450-2629 or by email at david.a.slagger@census.gov