Introducing the 2020 Census to Chinatown Elders

Introducing the 2020 Census to Chinatown Elders

PCDC held a small group discussion on July 25th for the elders at On Lok House about the 2020 U.S. Census. This small group discussion, co-organized by PA Voice, was designed to both inform elders on what the Census is, as well as learn about how communication regarding the Census can better prepare underrepresented communities for the Census. Pennsylvania Voice (PA Voice) is a non-profit organization that works with organizations like PCDC to engage and empower underrepresented communities in the democratic process.

The session first began with a quick survey on the background knowledge on the U.S. Census. Elders expressed that they had read about the Census from the Chinese language  newspaper, but was not very clear on what it was. The session moved on to giving information on the government’s role in this procedure as well as the importance of participating in the Census. Elders learned that participation can support their minority representation in America. After explaining the methods of participating in the Census, elders played a short game where they either put a thumbs-up or thumbs-down on some statements read aloud. The information session ended with answering of any questions and some baked goods.

The workshop served as an information session to introduce elders what the Census is, clear up any confusion for what the Census does, and provide a safe platform to express thoughts on the U.S. Census.