Census invited to speak at MABC Networking Breakfast
The Mexican American Business Chamber held its monthly networking breakfast at the Latin American Association on Thursday April 16th. Gabriela Gonzalez from the Instituto de Mexico and Director of the MABC presented opening remarks and welcomed Jesse Spikes Candidate for Mayor of Atlanta and Gerson Vasquez and Tony Valadez from the United States Census Bureau.
As representatives of the Census Bureau in Partnership and Data Services, Mr Vasquez and Mr. Valadez spoke about the importance of the upcoming 2010 Census, reminding the business professionals and community leaders in the audience that reaching the Hard to Count population in our communities is critical to the success of Census 2010. The Hard to Count include the Hispanic/Latino community, those at or below the poverty line among other groups. The effects of an accurate count will last for 10 years as 2010 Census data is relied upon to apportion Congressional seats, draw Congressional boundaries, distribute federal funds and allocate services such as hospitals and schools.
Most importantly the presentation emphasized that all Census data is confidential and that the Hispanic community, although often distrusting of government officials, should not remain in the shadows and should fill out their Census questionnaires. Among the group gathered for the networking breakfast, Jerry Gonzalez of GALEO and Miguel Martinez of LAA acknowledged the importance that our community leaders reach out and encourage the Hispanic community to Be Counted. The 2010 Census is Safe, it's Easy and it's Important.
For more informtion, please contact Diana G. Schwartz, Media Specialist U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Census Bureau at 404-335-1555.
