Leaders Encourage Tulsans To Participate In 2010 Census

By Chris Wright, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- Local leaders are pushing Tulsans to take part in the 2010 census. The forms have been sent out, but many have yet to fill them out.

Officials say Green Country is lagging behind the rest of the country when it comes to census response rate, and if that trend continues, there will be consequences.

"I want to ease your fears and concerns about completing the census form," said Victoria Bartlett, Tulsa First Lady.

That was the message from Victoria Bartlett Sunday afternoon at an East Tulsa church. 

The Bartlett's visited several communities, handing out brochures, mugs and bags, all in an effort to encourage people to fill out the 2010 census.

2010 Census Web site

"The City of Tulsa will lose approximately $1,400 per person in federal grant money if they don't fill out the census forms," said Bartlett.

Bartlett says it has been challenging to convey that message to the Hispanic community.

"There's rumors and rumors going about that it's dangerous for them to participate, that the information will be turned over to law enforcement, and it will not," said Bartlett.

Muscogee Creek Nation is making a census push as well, recently releasing a public service announcement. Its leaders say participation means more money for federally-funded tribal programs, but they are running into a lot of skepticism.

"We also are trying to promote to our elders that this is safe. It might be the government asking questions, but they're 10 simple questions," said Dr. Dannette McIntosh, Muscogee Creek Nation.

Of course, census participation isn't optional. If you don't fill out the form, Bartlett says that's when you can expect a visit from the government.

"If you're concerned about census workers, the best thing you can do to ward that off is to return your census form in the mail," said Bartlett.

Muscogee Creek Nation says members must list the full name of the tribe. If they only write Creek Nation, that person will not be counted as a tribal member.

According to 2010 Census Web site, 34 percent of Americans have returned their census forms. Only 27 percent of Tulsa County residents have mailed theirs back. 

Quick Tips, Census workers will:
• NOT ask for your social security number, bank account number or credit card number.
• NOT ask any information about your taxes or income.
• NEVER solicit donations or contact you by e-mail.
• ONLY ask you the questions listed on the Census questionnaire.

2010 Census Web site
2010 Census Web site in Spanish
2010 Census Jobs
2010 Census How It Works
2010 Census Why It's Important
2010 Census Privacy & Confidentiality

3/25/2010  Related Story: What to Watch for in Census Scams