[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 149 (Thursday, October 15, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2556]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING 2010 CENSUS COMMUNITY PARTNERS: ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA, NORTHERN 
         VIRGINIA URBAN LEAGUE AND NORTHERN VIRGINIA COALITION

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                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 15, 2009

  Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend 
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the Northern Virginia Urban League 
and the Northern Virginia Coalition for partnering with the U.S. Census 
Bureau to educate our community on the importance of a complete and 
accurate count in the 2010 Census.
  These organizations kicked off their education initiative with a 
forum on October 1, 2009 at Alexandria City Hall. Their efforts will be 
directed toward participation from Northern Virginia's African American 
community. They will discuss the logistics and strategy behind a 
successful Census and call on community leaders to take up this 
historic cause.
  A Census is conducted once every 10 years and is mandated by the U.S. 
Constitution. It counts everyone living in the U.S. to determine the 
distribution of Congressional seats and the fair allocation of more 
than $400 billion in federal funding to state, local and tribal 
governments. Widespread participation is essential to accurate 
representation in Congress and the correct apportionment of federal 
funds. An accurate Census helps to ensure fair representation for all, 
which is an ideal that lies at the heart of American democracy.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending Alpha 
Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the Northern Virginia Urban League and the 
Northern Virginia Coalition as responsible community partners for the 
2010 Census. I appreciate their call to action as such partnerships 
will be vital to the success of the Census.

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