DRC Statement Opposing White House Memorandum on the 2020 Census

DRC Statement Opposing White House Memorandum on the 2020 Census

Disability Rights California (DRC) strongly opposes the new White House memorandum that was issued July 21, 2020, that would negatively impact the 2020 census by not counting every person in the United States.

DRC logo

DRC Statement Opposing White House Memorandum on the 2020 Census

Disability Rights California (DRC) strongly opposes the new White House memorandum that was issued July 21, 2020, that would negatively impact the 2020 census by not counting every person in the United States.

Today, the census guides how 1.5 trillion dollars in federal funds are allocated every year, including programs for education, healthcare, housing, and imperative programs individuals with disabilities need. Responses to the Census are crucial in enforcing civil rights laws and guiding decision-making that impacts every community, including the disability community. 

The founders of our country saw the importance of empowering the people over their country, as stated in the U.S. Constitution.  To carry out the census in "such manner as they shall by Law direct," (Article I, Section 2), declaring to count every person living in the United States, and to use that count to determine representation in Congress.

Since 1970, when America’s first census took place, the census has aimed to count every person living in the United States regardless of citizenship or immigration status. “During this time, it is crucial that every community is counted for the 2020 Census. Every voice matters in shaping our country’s representation, programs for upcoming years, and making a difference for the future of our country,” says Andrew Imparato, Executive Director, Disability Rights California.