Despite our growing numbers, communities of color and immigrant communities are at risk of losing political power and  influence to defend and advance our community interests. We risk losing real resources and exacerbating public and  private underinvestment in our communities. 

 The census  still provides a meaningful way of reclaiming self-determined identities and community power through active participation.  The census is a snapshot of who we are as a country and is foundational to our democracy. The U.S. Constitution  mandates a complete and accurate counting of ALL persons (regardless of age, gender, immigration status, or  country of origin). The census is taken once every 10 years and is used to distribute seats in the U.S. House of Representatives and allocate government resources. It is also used by federal, state, and local governments and community  leaders to guide public policies and private sector investments.