Le Marteau's Journal: Census Questions

I'm one of those types who is, as a matter of principle, opposed to any law requiring involuntary action. Sure, if a person puts himself into a position of having to act (as in driving, running a business, making money) well then, you have to adhere to the laws. But for just doing nothing more than existing, to be compelled by law to do certain things... well, again, it's a matter of principle.

Which is why I find the census question, "What race do you consider yourself to be?" offensive.

Last time the census came around, I just entered the names of the people in my household. Other than that, I left the rest of the form blank, and nothing came of it. No canvassers, no letters, no fines, no nothing.

This time, I'm going to write in an answer for the "race" question. I'm going to enter, "NATIVE AMERICAN". They don't have that as a selection (they have "American Indian") to prevent smart asses like me, I suppose. But you can write one in.

Technically, that's not lying, because I was born and bred in the states. And I'm always welcome to becoming a "test case" in the courts should it come to that.

It should be amusing to see the statistics, when they come out, for my area. 90% white, a handful of brothers and sisters, plenty of hispanics... oh, and a couple of Native Americans. heheheh

My race?

[countertrolling]

Human

Native American is a statement of nationality.

Re:

[StalinsNotDead]

Dark Elf.

It says "do you consider yourself to be" not "what you are".

Re:

[Le Marteau]

I did some research, and it turns out they changed he wording for that question.

In 2000, it was: "What is this person's race? Mark (X) one or more races to indicate what this person considers himself/herself to be".

In 2010 it will be: "What is this person's race? Mark (X) one or more boxes."

So they got rid of the "considers" line. Again, I'm guessing to cut down on the smart ass factor : (

"Other Non White"

[Jeremiah Cornelius]

'Cos They're OK where they came from, but I don't want my daughter marrying one.

Agreed

[smittyoneeach]

While one can argue some historical validity of the practice as an olive branch to its adherents, the sun has set on those days.