The National LGBTQ Task Force launched phase two of its “Queer the Census” campaign on May 13, to continue to ensure that LGBTQ+ people are counted in the 2020 Census, the organization announced yesterday on its website. The continued mobilization efforts include virtual tours of the Census form that provides people with assistance question-by-question and volunteers who will place phone calls to LGBTQ+ people to offer help.

This is especially important because many people who identify as LGBTQ+ represent “non-White racial and ethnic groups…and LGBTQ immigrants are slightly more likely to be undocumented,” according to the Task Force. For LGBTQ+ people whose identities meet at intersections that are historically marginalized, such as Black and transgender, the Task Force confirms that experiences with poverty, homelessness and the legal system increase.

In addition, the Task Force will build a coalition with Census Counts campaign organizations and LGBTQ+ organizations across the country for "Queer the Census" LGBTQ Census week of action and advocacy that will begin on June 8, during Pride Month. The organizations include PFLAG, NQAPIA, the National Black Justice Coalition, the Movement Advancement Project, Equality California and more. The Queer the Census site offers resources and answers to often asked questions.  

“The Census helps LGBTQ communities access billions in federal funding for social programs, helps us build political power, and helps us enforce civil rights protections,” said Meghan Maury, National LGBTQ Task Force’s policy director. “While the Census doesn’t ask questions about sexual orientation or gender identity, it’s still vital for us to be counted. Filling out the Census is a critical component in building our collective power to fight for our rights, including the right to be fully represented in the Census count.” 

To learn more about The National LGBTQ Task Force and the Queer the Census, visit the site here or watch the PSA below: