Key Facts about the Census and the PSCCC

A complete count is crucial so that Portuguese speakers, and all Massachusetts residents, have full representation in Congress. Everyone should fill out and return the Census form.
A full count also ensures that all communities receive enough government funding for vital programs and services including public education, public safety, roads, transportation, health insurance and health care access, social services and much more.
Immigrants benefit tremendously from all of these services.  Cuts would cause tremendous suffering in our communities.
Immigrants, whether documented or undocumented, should not fear answering the Census.  The Census is completely confidential, and it is illegal for any Census representative to share their information with any outside agency including immigration and national security officials.
In order to get a better picture of our communities, the PSCCC is asking Portuguese speakers to answer the race and ethnicity questions as follows:Question 8 (or Question 5 for persons 2 and beyond in the household): Check “No-not of Hispanic, Latino or Spanish origin.”

Question 9 (or Question 6 for persons 2 and beyond in the household): Check ONLY “Some Other Race” and write in your ethnic/ancestral background, such as Brazilian, Cape Verdean, Portuguese, etc. in the boxes below.
Community members are encouraged to fill out the form when they receive it in the mail, which will be in February-March 2010.  Several organizations that are part of the group will be acting as Census partners to help community members fill out the Census forms.  By filling out the forms on your own, you can avoid having Census takers come to your door.
The PSCCC is made up of representatives of organizations and businesses that are run by immigrants, dedicated to helping immigrants, and committed to promoting full access to health care, social services, education and everything else they need for a healthy and successful life.
PSCCC meetings are open to the public.  Other community members are encouraged to join our Complete Count campaign.  For any questions, please contact Renan Leahy at MAPS, (617) 864-7600, rleahy@maps-inc.org.