U.S. Census?

[¿Que?]

Mostly geared towards the U.S., but anyone can chime in. What do you guys think about the census. I know some latino groups are calling for a boycott of the census, but I'm not sure what they base that on.

In my opinion the census provides valuable information that can aid studies concerned with inequality and whatnot. I believe the census data is publicly available, or available to institutions like universities and colleges. It is a government program, but the data can be used by just about anyone.

I also see the potential for abuse. However, ultimately, the census is just collecting demographic and some socio-economic data, so like any type of information, it can be used for good or ill.

Also, I'm wondering if you guys plan on filling out and returning your form.

[which doctor]

I will be working for the census, I start next wednesday. Send in your census form or I will have to come to your house!

[mollymae]

Constitutionally, the census is only supposed to be a headcount to determine how many representatives each state is assigned.

As for those boxes that ask you to specify your race and whatnot... do you guys know the consequences of not filling that part out? I mean if you were to simply not do it, would they send it back to you or make you pay a fine or something? I understand that they use that data for statistical purposes and determining how to use some funding, but I'm not sure if there would be any justification for making people share that information.

[4N4RCHY]

The census is a terrible idea. The fascists use it to spread their racist rhetoric.

[Tablo]

I see no problem with the Census as a means of collecting statistical data. I find such information as interesting and informative.

I'm sure there are many reasons to criticize the Census so please share these reasons so I may better understand.

[¿Que?]

I managed to dig this up. It's a link to the website of the group calling for the boycott. Some of it is in Spanish.

http://www.conlamic.org/

[Red Commissar]

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/federal-eye/2009/04/census_2010_latino_pastors_urg.html

From what that tells me it's over immigration reform.

Anyways the Census's primary role as has been mentioned is to help with representation in Congress. Personally I find the information it reveals interesting.

You don't have to fill out everything, such as the race questions. Their primary concern is to get a head count of the residence. Anything else they'll use for statistical purposes.

[mikelepore]

As for those boxes that ask you to specify your race and whatnot... do you guys know the consequences of not filling that part out? I mean if you were to simply not do it, would they send it back to you or make you pay a fine or something? I understand that they use that data for statistical purposes and determining how to use some funding, but I'm not sure if there would be any justification for making people share that information.

Refusal to answer a question, $100 fine.
Giving a false answer to a question, $500 fine.
Giving a false answer with the intent to cause inaccurate enumeration of the population, $1000 fine
Refusal to assist census employees -- $500 fine

Title 13 U.S. Code -- U.S. Census
Chapter 7 - Offenses and Penalties

[mollymae]

Refusal to answer a question, $100 fine.
Giving a false answer to a question, $500 fine.
Giving a false answer with the intent to cause inaccurate enumeration of the population, $1000 fine
Refusal to assist census employees -- $500 fine

Title 13 U.S. Code -- U.S. Census
Chapter 7 - Offenses and Penalties

Thanks.

[pierrotlefou]

Fuck that. Then they'll know how many people live in my house.