The 2020 Census is an issue that may have taken a backseat given the national focus on COVID-19, but its local importance around the country shouldn’t be diminished.

One important aspect of the Census, especially given the nationwide political climate, is encouraging the immigrant population to participate. In Perry that’s especially vital, with Latino residents estimated to outnumber non-Hispanics in the City. Rosa Gonzalez with Hispanics United for Perry has tried to allay the concerns of her peers by pointing out that legal immigration status isn’t part of the questionnaire, and even if it was all the specific information provided is exclusive to the Census Bureau and not shared with other Government entities.

Gonzalez says another roadblock for getting the Latino population to participate is public awareness, which she emphasizes is where residents come into play. “We tend to let people know about things going on and just spread the word, (and) I think that’s what will be the best way to do that. If you just want to take care of your neighbor, you are helping in spreading the voice with those people and we hope that this will be kind of like a chain. Take advantage of any opportunity that you have to talk with your neighbors or with somebody that you know about this, (and) I think that will make a good impact.”

Gonzalez adds, the 2020 Census is mostly being done online, especially given the concerns over COVID-19, which is a method some people may not be as familiar with. As such, she encourages people to help others fill out the online forms if they’re having trouble. Census Day is April 1st, though Gonzalez points out that people can provide their information afterwards. However, the information they provide should be as of that date. To learn more about the Census, listen to the two-part Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County interview with Gonzalez, which was conducted in both English and Spanish.