Community gathers for Census in Fairfield

Pumped and armed with school supplies, foodstuffs and more Saturday morning, volunteers left Bethel Community Church in Fairfield ready to spread the word that both the U.S. Census and upcoming election are integral to residents’ well being.

The “pop up Census” event, sponsored by the Tri-City NAACP, drew representatives from a variety of community groups dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives.

The goal was to visit several areas considered low turnout areas and explain the importance of the Census, information which is used to determine funding of things like education and transportation needs. At the same time, volunteers would promote voter registration and pass out food and school supplies.

Johnicon George, president of the Tri-City NAACP, urged volunteers to consider on their motivation for participating.

George’s it seems, was growing up in Hunters Point, babysitting his siblings and helping his single mom any way he could.

“I know how rough it was for me growing up,” he shared. “What’s your why? …Use your passion” in speaking with the community.

“We’re gonna come together and make sure our community is counted and everyone comes together and votes,” he continued.

Monica Winn, also with the NAACP, feels strongly about everyone being counted and voting.

“We need a change, for someone who is for everyone,” the Fairfield Realtor said. “We need to let everyone know they count.”

Peggy Sherrod with the National Council of Negro Women — Fairfield, Suisun City, Vacaville section, shared the sentiment.

Women, especially, need to have a voice, she said, adding that her group advocates for all women.

Amy Fabi with Asian Pacific Islander American Public Affairs said APAPA supports anything to do with uplifting the community. The partnerships, she added, are invaluable.

“It’s so cool that everyone’s coming together,” she emphasized, of the 50-plus volunteers participating in the Fairfield event.

A similar event was planned for Saturday evening in Vacaville.

For more information, visit www.census.gov.

PHOTO BY KIMBERLY K. FU — THE REPORTER Tri-City NAACP President Johnicon George energizes volunteers from a mass of community groups participating in Saturday’s pop-up Census awareness events in Fairfield.

PHOTO BY KIMBERLY K. FU — THE REPORTER Members of the National Council of Negro Women — Fairfield, Suisun City, Vacaville section gather at Bethel Church in Fairfield for a kickoff to a Census awareness event throughout the city.