U.S. Census
The Census is a survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Commerce every 10 years to collect statistical data to help the federal government make informed decisions for government action for areas of social welfare.
Since the Census can raise privacy concerns for civil libertarians, the ACLU of Ohio created the following list of frequently asked questions to serve as a resource.
The Latest
Frequently Asked Questions about the U.S. Census
Find out everything you need to know about the 2020 Census:
The ACLU National Office has a resource center with FAQs, check it out!
Where does the federal government find authority to conduct a Census?
The U.S. Constitution authorizes a Census in Article I, Section 2.
"Representatives and direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several States which may be included within this Union, according to their respective Numbers.""The actual Enumeration shall be made within three Years after the first Meeting of the Congress of the United States, and within every subsequent Term of ten Years, in such Manner as they shall by Law direct." - Article I, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution.
The Census is conducted under the authority of Title 13 of the U.S. Code, Section 141, which provides that the Secretary of Commerce has authority to take a census.
What is the American Community Survey?
It is a supplement to the Census to collect statistical information from smaller populations during the period between each U.S. Census.
Stay Informed
Sign up to be the first to hear about how to take action.
By completing this form, I agree to receive occasional emails per the terms of the ACLU’s privacy statement.
By completing this form, I agree to receive occasional emails per the terms of the ACLU’s privacy statement.