Although updating the census seems like one of the more dull tasks performed by the federal government, its importance passes the understanding of most American citizens, including myself. The United States census is the most significant civic process that is undertaken by the whole country. It is outlined in the Constitution as the intent to document every single person residing in the United States regardless of citizenship or status. The data collected in the census will then help to determine where billions of dollars of federal funds will be directed.
This is necessary for the function of the nation.
In order to create the most accurate statistic of the American demographic possible, the revision and creation of a census is critical. The next census, scheduled for 2020, has already inspired tension among many who believe that Trump’s anti-minority rhetoric will discourage individuals from freely providing information. Additionally, the rapid creation of new executive orders that create divides between nations and unease with American’s who identify also with the nationalities affected has made it truly unsafe for citizens to come forward with their personal information. Many believe that giving access to a new census to Trump, who has become famous for his rash speech and legislation, could potentially but them or their families at risk. Trump has already refused to increase funding to the Census Bureau which in itself has the potential to completely undermine the effectiveness and credibility of the census as data is being collected.
Additionally, many members of the LGBTQ+ community have become concerned as the census suggested that individuals who identify with that demographic will be documented. Although that statement has since been corrected, with the abundance of anti-LGBTQ rhetoric in the Trump administration, it is no surprise that this suggestion caused much alarm. The collection of census data was never intended to evoke fear but to help effectively distribute federal funding. Therefore, no demographic should be subjected to fearing for their safety due to this operation.
Intended to be the very first internet based census collection, the 2020 census also poses the threat and suspicion of cyber security and potential identity theft. Already uneasy with the belief that Russia somehow tampered with the votes in Trump’s favor, many Americans believe that this method of census data collection will open the doors for many more serious incidents down the road. Ultimately, without full compliance in assisting the Census Bureau with data collection, the 2020 census will not be accurate, successful or credible, which will inevitably lead to larger issues down the road.
