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United Church says Census is critical |
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The United Church of Canada has added its voice to those protesting the government's recent decision to eliminate the mandatory long-form census. In a letter to Industry Minister Tony Clement, the church urged the
government not to implement a voluntary system of collecting detailed
census information.
Rev. Bruce Gregersen, a General Council Officer says, "We see this as a
step backward at a time when Canadians need access to reliable census
information to help build a more equitable and just society."
He adds that because the long-form census also contains questions
related to religion, it would be a great loss to faith communities and
to the country in understanding the multiplicity and richness of the
spiritual makeup of Canada.
Gregersen says like other non-profit organizations and charities, the
United Church benefits from the wealth of data that is collected and
analyzed by Statistics Canada.
He explains that many local United Church congregations, particularly
those facing significant demographic change, use census information to
help identify community needs within the neighbourhoods they serve.
Gregerson says, "Knowing who your neighbours are is an important part of
adapting congregational outreach programs and advocacy initiatives that
are integral to the church's mission."
He adds, "Responding to community needs, both spiritual and social is
how the United Church, its congregations, and its members live out our
faith in this world. Losing the statistical tool that helps to identify
these needs will seriously handicap our ability to respond as
effectively in the future."
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