VOLUNTARY PARTICIPATION FOR STATISTICS CANADA CENSUS 2016 IN AKWESASNE

Through community input, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne has approved Statistics Canada census canvassers to survey households in the northern districts of Akwesasne. Participation of this survey is voluntary; therefore, every community member has the option to participate or not to participate in the census when canvassers survey households.

Council released an online survey on March 17, 2016 to gauge whether or not community members were in support of the census. The survey provided Akwesasronon the option to answer “yes” or “no” to the question: Would you want Akwesasne to participate in the 2016 Census provided by Census Canada? As of April 14, 2016 over 69% of individuals that completed the survey selected “yes.”

Statistics Canada collects census information every five (5) years. All census surveys collected are under the authority of Statistics Canada and are strictly confidential. By law, households in Canada must complete a questionnaire; however, as indicated above, Akwesasne community members participation in the survey is voluntary and not required.

According to Statistics Canada, reports from the census are to assist in developing programs and services; to establish and expand community health and social programs; to assist in making informed decisions on employment and community development plans, training and economic opportunities; and to evaluate existing programs and assess new service needs.

Statistics Canada census canvassers will begin visiting homes in April 2016 and surveys are expected to be complete by the end of May 2016. Canvassers will be hired from the community of Akwesasne.