In the United States Census, Caribbeans Count.
The goal of the census is to count every person living in the United States once, only once, and in the right place.
Article I, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution mandates that this population and housing count occur every 10 years. Census data guide how more than $675 billion of federal funding is distributed yearly to states and communities. The Caribbean Equality Project’s “Caribbeans Count” 2020 Census campaign aimed to educate hard-to-count Caribbean-American and Caribbean immigrant communities throughout New York City. This included counting and educating black and brown Caribbean LGBTQ+ immigrants, undocumented Caribbean immigrants, Caribbean Americans, and diverse Caribbean faith-based communities on how the 2020 Census impacts funding for infrastructure, community-based organizations, education, public health, congressional representation, and so much more.
To ensure Queer and trans immigrants and LGBTQ+ families participated in the 2020 Census, Caribbean Equality Project organized workshops, conducted street canvassing, launched culturally-responsive educational campaigns, and amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, reached more than 15,000 community members through food pantries, digital marketing, virtual events, and text and phone banking.
2020 Census–Queens Counts
2020 Census Outreach Launch–Richmond Hill, QueensFor the first time in history, the 2020 Census counted same-sex households. It is deeply unacceptable that the Census does not offer gender responses beyond the male and female binary. However, it is essential to note that the U.S. Census Bureau accepts forms in which the gender question is skipped. Even though the 2020 Census did not represent the full spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community's lives and experiences, CEP energized community across New York City to participate. Hundreds of billions of dollars were on the line, including funds for many programs that directly support the LGBTQ+ community, including job programs, housing, education, senior centers, and HIV prevention & treatment programs.
It's quick and easy. The Census questionnaire takes about 10 minutes to complete.
It's safe, secure, and confidential. Your information and privacy are protected.
There is no citizenship question on the 2020 Census, and it does not ask for your immigration status.
Your response helps to direct billions of dollars in federal funds to local communities for schools, roads, and other public services.
Results from the Census determine the number of seats each state has in Congress and your political representation at all levels of government.
Am I required to respond to the Census?
Yes, you are required by law to respond to the Census (Title 13, U.S. Code, Sections 141 and 193).
Are my answers confidential and private?
Yes. The Census Bureau is required by law to protect your information. The Census Bureau is not permitted to publicly release your responses in a way that could identify you or your household. Per the Federal Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2015, your data are protected from cybersecurity risks by screening the systems that transmit your data. All web data submissions are encrypted to protect your privacy. To learn more about the 2020 Census, click here.
2020 U.S. Census CEP Events
Census an’ Chill
A three-hour virtual Caribbean lime providing educational information about the 2020 Census
Queens Gets Counted
Rally & outreach event in Richmond Hill, Queens driving census completion and voter registration
Caribbeans Count
In response to the federal government cutting the crucial door-knocking efforts for the 2020 Census by an entire month, the Caribbean Equality Project produced a historic and inclusive Caribbean-centered Census digital outreach video titled "Caribbeans Count." The video features educational messages from Caribbean politicians, LGBTQ leaders, gender justice activists, community organizers, faith leaders, and Caribbean cultural performers on the importance of completing the 2020 Census. The video also highlights Caribbean neighborhoods in NYC, iconic landmarks of the five boroughs, Caribbean-owned small businesses, cultural parades, music, and festivals.
