Munoz opposes addition of citizenship question to 2020 Census

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois joined a coalition of 18 states, 16 local governments and the U.S. Conference of Mayors in challenging the federal government’s attempt to add a question about citizenship to the 2020 Census. Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“Adding a citizenship question on the 2020 Census only serves to frighten our immigrant communities and deter the participation of minority communities. These populations are already undercounted and could lose out on more vital services due to the divisive policies being put forth by the Trump Administration. In turn, that will cause problems for all Americans as our policies fail to reflect demographic realities.

“I stand with Attorney General Raoul in fighting for the rights of immigrant and minority communities. We need to make sure everyone is counted for the sake of all communities across our state and country.”

The U.S. Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the Trump Administration’s appeal of a federal district judge’s ruling barring the question from being asked on April 23.