Please DO DO DO answer the 2020 census if you've not already.

This bit was shared with me by Brusan Rhoda-Wells, daughter of long-time EWGS member, Betty Rhoda. Please read and heed. YOU MATTER. 

Date: March 27, 2020 at 11:23 AM
Subject: If you haven't take the time - or haven't receive your invitation in the mail as yet ---- Please take time to complete and submit the 2020 United States Census

https://www.census.gov/library/video/2020/invitation-to-complete-the-2020-census.html

As many of you know - we live pretty much at the end of the road of anywhere in Idaho.  As of today we have not received our "invitation" to complete the 2020 US Census by US mail - or by a visit from a Census Taker at our door.  I suspect we will not have a visit by the Census Taker at our door!

However 95% of us should have received our Invitation to Take the Census in the US mail - or, like me,.....you are awaiting anxiously for the Census Taker to knock on your door.

I loosely call my self a genealogist - however the importance to someone that does family history - family tress, family heritage - the Census is huge.

Consider this - depending upon what the every 10 years Census information provides - is your lineage, in some years where your parents where born, what year you may have immigrated to America, your ability to read or not - if you owned a home or rented, if you had a farm, the amount of your income.... did  you serve in the American Revolution..........the list goes on and on.

I have learned that I had ancestors that came to America through Ellis Island, the man came alone and his wife and 12 children came later.  I have learned that an ancestor came to America and had 4 children with them here - but left 4 children in Ireland.  Imagine that story!

On the other hand - during my professional career - I was able to us the Census' to obtain funding/grants for the various non-profits that I worked with over my career.

This year more than ever - the need to complete the Census is crucial.  Currently -- you and I can view the Census' on line -at no cost through 1940.  Before too long the 1950 Census will be available - and in maybe 70 years the 2020 Census will be available for all to view!.......Let the world know you are here - right now....and that we remain America Proud - America Strong.

Thank you for taking the time.  I think we have been asked to complete the Census by April 1!

Brusan Rhoda-Wells