Agenda - 03-16-2010 - 3a - Laserfiche WebLink

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6 Why does the Census Bureau ask about race and Hispanic origin? The Census Bureau collects race data in accordance with guidelines provided by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget and these data are based on self- identification. The racial categories included in the census form generally reflect a social definition of race recognized in this country, and are not an attempt to define race biologically, anthropologically or genetically. In addition, it is recognized that the categories of the race item include racial and national origin orsocio-cultural groups. People may choose to report more than one race to indicate their racial mixture, such as "American Indian and White." People who identify their origin as Hispanic, Latino or Spanish may be of any race. In addition, it is recognized that the categories of the race item include both racial and national origin or socio-cultural groups. You may choose more than one race category. Information on race is required for many federal programs and is critical in making policy decisions, particularly for civil rights. States use these data to meet legislative redistricting principles. Race data also are used to promote equal employment opportunities and to assess racial disparities in health and environmental risks. Why doesn't the race question include more categories? The race categories are those that are approved for data collection purposes by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget. For more information, visit the Office of Management and Budget Web site at: www.Whitehouse.qov/omb/fedreg/1997standards. html. Why does the census form have room for only six people? The Census Bureau decided to use asix-person form for the 2010 Census based on extensive research that indicated that most households contain six or fewer people. Given the small number of households with seven or more people, it is less expensive for the Census Bureau to follow up with those households than it is to produce, print and mail a form with space for seven or more people. Do we count Americans living abroad? Yes, in some cases. The 2010 Census counts will include federal employees (military and civilian) and their dependents living overseas with them that can be assigned to a home state. These data are provided to the Census Bureau by the employing federal departments and agencies through their administrative records. However, private U.S. citizens living abroad who are not affiliated with the federal government (either as employees or their dependents) will not be included in the overseas counts. These overseas counts are used solely for reapportioning seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.