Mah Introduces Measure to Initiate Census Outreach

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – One year ahead of the 2020 Census, state Rep. Theresa Mah, D-Chicago, has introduced a measure that would help ensure a complete and accurate count of everyone living in Illinois.

“Due to language barriers and concerns about data privacy, many residents may hesitate to participate in the census,” said Mah. “As Census Bureau data is used to determine how certain government programs are run and how much federal money is allocated to Illinois, it is critically important that the census count is accurate. My legislation encourages support for community-based organizations and local governments across the state to do outreach work to educate residents on the importance of being counted.”

Mah’s House Resolution 243 declares April 1, 2019 as Census Awareness Day in Illinois and encourages state officials to work together to ensure a fair, accurate and coordinated census count in 2020.

“An accurate census count will ensure that congressional and state legislative district boundaries adapt to population shifts and that resources are allocated fairly,” said Mah. “For Illinois to receive the resources we need and deserve, it’s critical that we begin reaching out to residents now, well in advance of Census Day in 2020.”

Mah is serving her second term representing the 2nd District, which includes the Chicago neighborhoods of McKinley Park, Pilsen, Chinatown, Bridgeport, Brighton Park and Back of the Yards. For more information, please contact Mah’s district office at 872-281-5775.