It's a humbling time we're now living through. In all honesty, spending some time completing the 2020 Census form seems almost trivial in the face of the spread of COVID-19 and all the lives being impacted, and lost. However, we must stay focused on the long-term goals and benefits for all Minnesotans of a complete, accurate, fair, and equitable 2020 Census count.

• Representation for the next 10 years (MN may lose a congressional seat)
• Apportionment of federal funds to Minnesota (crucial to community recovery)
• Accurate data to inform decision-makers at all levels across all sectors (public, private, nonprofit, manufacturing, healthcare, financial, construction, etc.)

Tax deadlines are being pushed back. We all want to complete our tax forms because most of us get money back directly into our pockets every year. Well, you can look at the 2020 Census form in a similar way, except the money comes back to your community, but imagine doing your tax form only once every ten years. How much more important would it be for you to make sure that you get a complete count of every itemization and deduction?

Well, that time is now. Right now, is that once-every-ten-years opportunity to get it right. The 2020 Census is upon us right now, coronavirus and all. So rise up! Stay focused and stay safe. Complete your 2020 Census form online today, and encourage everyone you know to do the same (or by phone, or mail). Thank you so very much, for everything that you're doing to make sure that #WeCountMN!

Messaging Guidance

This is a great time to elevate the ways to respond to the census without interacting with people during the self response phase. A few messages to lift:

• There are three ways to respond to the 2020 Census from the comfort of your own home - online, by phone or by returning the paper questionnaire!
• People can get questions answered and respond to the 2020 Censu in English and 12 non English languages by calling phone questionnaire assistance.
• The Census Bureau has plans in place for if/when a pandemic occurs during census operations - this includes the coronavirus. They will continue to stay up-to-date on the status of the virus and adjust their plans accordingly.