On January 15, 2010, the NAACP New York State Conference launched Yes We Count 2010 Census Campaign; the launch program was entitled “Make King Day Count.”  The NAACP National office has mandated that NAACP units in every state vigorously campaign to make sure that every American participates in the U.S. Census. Every 10 years, the U.S. government conducts a survey of the population by sending a short questionnaire by mail to every household in the country. While low-income families and communities of color stand the most to benefit from the Census count, they are often less likely to participate.

Participation is crucial, particularly for vulnerable communities. Every person counted-or not counted-in a community impacts ten years of federal funds, political representation, public infrastructure and private investment. Here is what is at stake:

• Federal Funds: For each 100 people not counted, a community risks losing an estimated $1.2 million over the next decade for federally funded programs including: Medicaid, public housing assistance, child health programs, Head Start, transit programs, and more.

• Political Representation: States use census numbers to redraw all political boundaries and determine which states gain or lose representation, including Congressional Districts, state house and senate districts for city councils, school committees and county board.

• Public Infrastructure: All levels of government rely on census numbers to locate vital public works like schools, health centers, public transportation, highways, and affordable housing.

• Private Investment: Businesses large and small use census numbers to identify new markets, select sites for operations, make investment decisions and determine the goods and services offered.

When families do not participate in the census, it means their communities lose access to money, resources and power. In the weeks ahead we will bring you more information on how you can get involved. Together, we can make sure all Americans count.

3rd Quaterly Meeting

August 14, 2010

Radisson Hotel

120 East Main Street

Rochester, NY

Lunch $10 per person

74th NAACP New York State Conference Convention
October 8-10, 2010
Rochester New York
Radisson Rochester Riverside Hotel
120 East Main Street
Rochester, New York 14604