CHEROKEE NATION-Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker is sending out a message that might be a wise reminder for all Native Americans.
"Native people have been historically underrepresented in the Census. The Census Bureau estimates that in the last Census of 2010, American Indians were undercounted by about 5%, which is more than double the undercount rate of the next closest population group. There are areas in Adair, Cherokee, Delaware and Sequoyah counties that had less than a 30% participation rate in the 2010 Census. Because these areas have a high density of Cherokee households, it is imperative that we educate our citizens about how important it is to respond to the Census so they are not underrepresented in the future," says Baker.
He points out that it's necessary for all tribes to participate in the Census because the data received determines federal funding for Indian schools, education programs, health programs, housing programs, infrastructure development and economic development efforts.
"This federal money supports our most vulnerable citizens, including those who are low-income, veterans and senior citizens," says Baker.
"In Oklahoma, for every person missed by the Census, we lose more than $1,100 a year in federal program dollars . . . The number of residents, their income level, the cost of housing and housing conditions all count toward how much money a tribal government receives for housing programs. The formula is complex, and we have so much riding on a complete and accurate response to the Census."
Census data also determines funding for Indian health care, which impacts health services in tribal communities. Census data also affects Native communities in ways that do not directly offer funding.
"In addition to the billions of dollars that will fund tribal government programs across the country over the next 10 years, the data plays a key role in fair voting representation, as the results of the Census determine the allocation of congressional seats," Baker says.
The Census Bureau is currently hiring workers for processes that are beginning in August. Campaigns have begun to help make people aware of the importance of voting, and most citizens will receive initial information about the census in March. Citizens will be able to complete the census through the mail, online, or with a representative.
