A Word on the Census

I believe in the U.S. Census. I use census data frequently in my work, and I know it is important for allocation of funding for infrastructure and services, not to mention political representation. I have also found historical census data to be a very useful tool in doing family history research. I believe in the U.S. Census.

I remember filling out the form as I lay in bed one night, taking pride in completing my civic duty, and having my daughter be "counted" for the first time. I remember filling out the form, but apparently it didn't get in the mailbox. Looking at the pile of papers next to my bed, I guess I shouldn't be surprised.

This fact was brought to my attention by the appearance of a Census-taker on my doorstep a couple of Saturdays ago. After confirming who she was, I politely answered her questions with Lucy on my hip, and she seemed genuinely surprised that I was cooperative. I guess there are some out there who feel the government is collecting this information for deviant purposes. I can only imagine some of the attitude they get from others when they ring the doorbell.

Lastnight and this morning, in a span of about 12 hours, I received 3 calls from the Census office stating I was 1 out of 25 "lucky ones" that would be subject to a call to confirm the on-site visit. Two of the calls occurred within a 40-minute timeframe. The 3rd call also caught my voicemail, the message to which included a veiled yet perky threat that if I didn't call back someone would be coming to my house to conduct a follow-up interview.

I called back, and waited about 2 minutes listening to other calls being placed, and someone shuffling papers until they apparently stumbled upon my paperwork. He asked a few questions and I was done.

Point being, just mail the damn thing in. OR THEY WILL HUNT YOU DOWN.