Every ten years, the U.S. Census Bureau is required to count every person who lives in the United States. Census survey forms collect the age, sex, race, and relationship of everyone residing in that household. Having an accurate count of all persons living in the U.S. is essential to our democracy. The Census count is used to help determine how the federal government allocates funds for educational programs, health programs, services for limited-English speaking voters, and other programs. This information is also used to ensure appropriate representation in Congressional districts.

When Asian American, Native Hawaiian, & Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities are undercounted, we are given less than our fair share of government resources. Visual Communications produced six videos for SENSE US 2020: Asian Pacific American Lives, which utilize the power of storytelling to provide a deeper understanding of AANHPI communities in Southern California, so that we can inspire communities to complete the 2020 Census.

Visual Communications sees being counted as just the first step. Moreover, we want to tell stories of immigration, settlement, and cultural adjustment, and to share our communities’ hopes and aspirations using their own voices. As we continue building motivation for people to participate in the greater community, we hope AANHPI communities are recognized as people who have seats at the table, empowering them to grow as vital members of society.

Click here to complete the 2020 Census.

Help Your Community by Completing the Census

"If we're not all working towards being free and helping everyone else in our community, who are we really helping?" - Amritpal Kaur

Complete the Census and Make Your Voice Heard

"Sharing your voice is a gift we can give back to support our communities." - Prachi Dixit

Count Us In to Queer the Census

"There can be no inclusiveness without engagement, but it starts with you.” - Joanna

Your Response to the Census Matters

"I hope the next generation knows their culture, their language, and where they came from so that they know where they're going." - Auntie Heidi Chargualaf-Quenga

We Count in the 2020 Census

"I preserve the legacy of my parents as well as my ancestors." - Kawen Young

E mafai with Census 2020

"I am here. I am a Pacific Islander, and I want my voice to be heard, and I want my community - this community that I live in - to be healthy and vibrant." - Audrey Aofia Kawaiopua Alo