WHEREAS the U.S. Census Bureau is required by the U.S. Constitution to conduct a count of the population and provides a historic opportunity to help shape the foundation of our society and play an active role in American democracy; and

WHEREAS Hennepin County is committed to ensuring every resident is counted; and

WHEREAS federal and state funding is allocated to communities, and decisions are made on matters of national and local importance based, in part, on census data and housing; and

WHEREAS census data helps determine how many seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives and is necessary for the an accurate and fair redistricting of state legislative seats, county and city councils and voting districts; and

WHEREAS information from the 2020 Census and American Community Survey are vital tools for economic development and increased employment; and

WHEREAS the information collected by the census is confidential and protected by law; and

WHEREAS a united voice from business, government, community-based and faith-based organizations, educators, media and others will enable the 2020 Census message to reach more of our residents.

BE IT RESOLVED, that Hennepin County is committed to partnering with the U.S. Census Bureau; the State of Minnesota; local governments in Hennepin County and across the Twin cities metro area; and local community organizations, and will: 

1. Honor the goals and ideals for the 2020 Census. 
2. Strive to achieve a complete and accurate count of all people in Hennepin County—count every person once, only once, and in the right place
3. Support intentional outreach in historically undercounted communities that is informed by our community partners and Hennepin County staff.
4. Understand why inaccurate census data has occurred in the past and how inaccurate data contributes to disparities. 
5. Support people to feel empowered to participate and proud to be counted. 
6. Reinforce census takers as they help our County complete an accurate count.

Adopted at Hennepin County Minnesota this 23rd day of April.