We are living through an extraordinary time of COVID-19 and our communities fighting for justice and equality. The 2020 census is more than just a population count it is an opportunity to shape the future of our communities. Census data determines how much funding communities get for essential public services like health care, education, housing emergency services including domestic violence shelters and sexual assault programs. Funding our communities are entitled to per treaty agreements.
This election season, your voice is needed to guide our efforts to stop violence against Native women, children, and community. We are in a unique position to witness the impacts that law and policy have on survivors and tribal communities. We identity gaps in how the systems are or are not meeting out needs. It is the voices of our communities, and the strength of our womxn, children, relatives and survivors that shape our priorities and approach.
We recognize the challenges that come with completing the 2020 census and registering to vote as we are practicing physical distancing and trying to keep our loved ones healthy and safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. The barriers that COVID-19 has created to participate in the 2020 census and the upcoming election season are disproportionally felt by survivors and communities of color, whose voices and stories guide our efforts to end domestic violence and sexual violence on election day.
That’s why this whole month of September, CSVANW is committed to encouraging, empowering and supporting survivors’ and Native communities’ access to their right to vote and participate in the 2020 census.
Below you will find some important information on filling out the 2020 census to registering to vote.
Join us as we imagine and create a safe and just future for our communities. Together, let’s get counted in the 2020 census and register to vote to reclaim our community!