What is the Census 2000?
Basically the definition of the Census is an official and periodic, but complete counting of the population. In the United States, the Bureau of the Census, every 10 years conducts this complete accounting of every individual, whether they are citizens, or residents, or non-residents. The Census is now a constitutional law of the U.S., and since we are an insular area, there is a Memorandum of Agreement between the US Bureau of the Census, and the CNMI government that this census also be conducted here in NMI as well.
Q: Why is participation in the Census mandatory?
A: Census is the foundation of our Democracy. It is the only way that we can guarantee fair representation in our democratic system of government. Also, it is only through census that the CNMI government can find out what the community needs. The data that we gather here is official information that will be used both by our local government as well as the Federal Government for the next 10 years for many types of grants.
Q: When will the Census 2000 begin?
A: The planning of the Census 2000 actually started years ago. But the actual start date of enumeration (counting of the people ) will be on April 1. Beginning mid-March the U.S. Postal Service will deliver the Census Questionnaire to as many households as possible with P.O. Box number. The questionnaires will have instructions asking respondents to complete the form for their household. Residents will be asked to hold the form until a Census worker comes to their home to pick it up. If the household does not receive a form in the mail, enumerators will conduct an interview at the household using a questionnaire designed for personal interview situations.
Q: What kind of questions will the Census 2000 ask?
A: The Census 2000 is concerned about population, housing and income. The questions regarding population will ask name, age, sex, and marital status. Residents will be asked if they rent or own their property. They will also be asked about their income, employment, and level of education and profession.
Q: Can you feel safe giving such confidential information?
A: The Census officials are sworn to secrecy. The enumerators (people who come to your home) are required to have an FBI check and drug test. The Census information is not available to police, IRS, INS, courts or to the military.
Q: What is the size of the Census 2000?
A: The U.S. Department of Commerce fiscal 2000 budget earmarked $3.5 million to carry out the census in the CNMI. There will be almost 500 jobs created for the residents of the Northern Mariana Islands. The positions will have a pay range from $9.50 to $14.00 per hour. Even though preference is given to U.S. Citizens, qualified non-citizens will be also be considered because their bilingual skills will be enlisted.
