Illinois is in a precarious position when it comes to the 2020 census. The count determines congressional representation, and the state is at risk for losing up to two seats. Central and southern Illinois appear most vulnerable to losing a congressional seat, which is why it’s especially important to make sure everyone participates, according to Anita Banerji, director of the Democracy Initiative with Forefront Illinois. The Chicago-based civic engagement nonprofit has been working to ensure an accurate count. Representatives from the farm bureau, local governments and other nonprofits met in Springfield recently to learn how to promote census participation in rural areas. About 12% of Illinois’ population lives in small towns and sparsely populated areas. Banerji said there are unique challenges to getting an accurate count in these places. “It’s the lack of access to technology. It’s the distrust in government,” she said. “It’s the lack of awareness, lack of connectivity to community
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December 9, 2019 at 08:44PM
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