Video Testimonial Transcript Greg Richardson Executive Director North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs
Participation . . . participation! If our tribal leaders and our tribal communities do not participate in the Census, of course, the data will be skewed for the next 10 years. So, by participating in the Census, we’ll be able to apply for additional programs and services because we’ll have that data that will show the needs in our communities. Indian people need to hear from tribal leaders about the importance of the Census Bureau. It would not be as acceptable if we have outside people coming in. Tribal leaders are elected in their position, and these are people that Indian people trust to address their needs and trust to represent Indian communities. There’s a multitude of resources available for our communities, and so by having a good relationship with our Census Bureau Regional Offices and having that knowledge about the programs and services that are there enhances our ability to serve our population. So as a tribal leader, with this information, you’re loaded with the ability, you’re loaded with knowledge, that you can take to the people, the tribal people, you can take to the state level officials, you can take to the General Assembly, you can take to the State Data Center. It just arms our people with ammunition and information that we can use to better serve our population.