Press Releases

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Toronto: 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 this week to Industry Minister Tony Clement, the church urged the government not to implement a voluntary system of collecting detailed census information.

“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,” says the Rev. Bruce Gregersen, General Council Officer, Programs.

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.

“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,” says Gregersen.

“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,” says Gregersen. “Losing the statistical tool that helps to identify these needs will seriously handicap our ability to respond as effectively in the future.”

For more information, please contact:

• Mary-Frances Denis
  Program Coordinator, Media and Public Relations
  The United Church of Canada
  Tel: 416-231-7680 ext. 2016
  Toll-free: 1-800-268-3781 ext. 2016
  E-mail: Mary-Frances Denis