The MML Foundation is so proud of all that has been achieved with Census 2020. We were fortunate to see strong, resilient leadership in every corner of our State. And we were privileged to work with an array of great partners including our funding partners: DTE Foundation, AT&T, Consumer’s Energy, Delta Dental, Michigan Energy First, and the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights. Because of the work and support across many communities, companies, organizations and individuals, Michigan showed up STRONG for the 2020 Census count.

There were some memorable ‘firsts’, such as the fact that Michigan was the first state to surpass its 2010 self-response rate on the 2020 Census. By contrast, in 2010, Michigan finished with a 67.7% response rate and ranked 17th in the nation. Another first was perhaps not so great. This was the first Census that took place during a global pandemic. Nevertheless, Michigan persisted. Against phenomenal odds, the Census Bureau believes that 99.9% of households were enumerated. We achieved a solid 71.3% census response rate, all despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

Residents across Michigan communities were engaged in authentic ways. As an example, we were particularly heartened about the work taking place in neighborhood block clubs, barbershops and churches. The real conversations and relationships that build the Census were such an incredible piece of the final product.  Our partners worked with their communities in such authentic ways and residents heard, time and again, that they really counted.

Now, as we move on from the Census in Michigan, we must ensure that everyone continues to remember that they count and that their voice counts. Community residents must continue to use their voices to make their communities stronger, more creative, and better for everyone, because that’s what really counts.