Red, white, blue? Be counted, too!
This month communities throughout the service areas of Kentucky’s Touchstone Energy Cooperatives have been decked out in red, white and blue in observance of our nation’s Independence Day. We collectively express patriotism with parades, fireworks and plenty of barbecues. Here’s one other act to add to this list: completing the 2020 Census.
Article 1, Section 2 of the United States Constitution requires an accurate count of all residents every 10 years. Since 1790, the census has ensured that communities like ours are fairly represented in government. It’s our civic duty to step forward and say, “I COUNT!”
The number of seats Kentucky holds in the House of Representatives depends entirely on census results. Also, the more people in our area who are counted, the more money our local communities may receive from census-guided federal funding.
Census responses are confidential and protected by law. You’ll be asked to tally the number of people in your household and record basic information such as age, sex and race. The survey does not question any individual’s citizenship or ask for social security or financial information.
Participating in the 2020 census is simple and takes 10 minutes or less. You can respond online at my2020census.gov. You can also call 844-330-2020 to be counted. Or, you can complete and return the paper questionnaire mailed to you.
Caring for the community is fundamental to the way co-ops do business. It’s why we invest in programs such as STEM education in local schools and economic development initiatives that bring new jobs to the area. And it’s the reason every co-op member should stand up and be counted in the census.
The 2020 Census is important, safe and easy. Declare July 4 as your day to be counted, and then inspire others to do the same. Then feel free to wave that American flag with extra gusto because you are a true patriot.