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For Native Americans, we really, really want them to participate
in the Census because we have small numbers,
and every number counts and every person counts.
But because we have such a reliance and a relationship
with the federal government - as far as our programs,
the delivery of our health care services, our housing programs,
our education services - it's absolutely critical
that we have this information about the individuals
that reside in our communities,
or identify themselves as Native Americans.
The numbers from the Census data make real differences
in tribal communities.
I would have to say probably more
that any other community in the United States.
We want to be able to make sure our numbers count.
In order for people to feel comfortable to open
up their doors to let somebody in, it's easier to let
in someone from your own community that you know
and trust than someone outside in a suit, coming in to visit.
And so, we believe, and I think the data proves,
that we get a better count when we have our own people working
in our own communities.
We need tribal leaders to make sure
that they get the word of mouth out.
Because if people in their communities see the leadership,
giving the message that doing this - engaging in
and participating in the Census gathering information will be
important to us and our future generations -
they'll feel a need to participate.
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