AFT Resolution

SUPPORT OF AND PARTNERSHIP WITH THE 2010 CENSUS

WHEREAS, the U.S. Census Bureau is required by the Constitution of the United States of America to conduct a count of the population to help shape the foundation of our society and play an active role in American democracy; and

WHEREAS, the AFT is committed to ensuring that every resident is counted; and

WHEREAS, more than $300 billion per year in federal and state funding is allocated to communities, and decisions are made on matters of national and local importance based on census data, including healthcare, community development, housing, education, transportation, social services, employment, and much more; and

WHEREAS, census data determine how many seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives as well as the redistricting of state legislatures, county and city councils and voting districts; and

WHEREAS, the 2010 Census creates hundreds of thousands of jobs across the nation; and

WHEREAS, every Census Bureau worker takes a lifetime oath to protect confidentiality and ensure that data identifying respondents or their households not be released or shared for 72 years; and

WHEREAS, a united voice from businesses, labor, government, community-based and faith-based organizations, educators, media and others will allow the 2010 Census message to reach a broader audience, providing trusted advocates who can spark positive conversations about the 2010 Census:

RESOLVED, that the American Federation of Teachers support the goals of the 2010 Census and disseminate 2010 Census information to encourage participation; and

RESOLVED, that the AFT ask its affiliates and membership to partner together to achieve an accurate and complete count; and

RESOLVED, that the AFT encourage its affiliates and membership to participate in events and initiatives that will raise overall awareness of the 2010 Census. (Adopted by Executive Council, 2009)

(2009)