The Kresge Foundation is heartened by the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling today that bars – for now – inclusion of a citizenship question on the 2020 Census. We remain hopeful that it will not be included at all, consistent with our commitment to ensure a fair and accurate census count.

As a national foundation that dedicates more than $100 million annually to community development efforts around the country, Kresge views an accurate census count as fundamental to how and where we work. A citizenship question on the 2020 Census questionnaire would have limited Kresge’s ability to target resources appropriately, directly undercut the efforts of our partners, and created profound and wholly unnecessary barriers to opportunity.

We are relieved that the citizenship question is barred for the time being. Nonetheless, we remain concerned about the significant fear and suspicion that the proposed question has created in communities around the country, harming an accurate 2020 Census.

To some extent, much of the damage has been done, despite today’s outcome. As such, the philanthropic community must support efforts to boost participation and inclusion in the 2020 Census.

Kresge remains steadfast in our commitment to ensure a fair and accurate census count. We will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our philanthropic peers to safeguard the 2020 Census.

Read the ruling: Department of Commerce vs. New York