The U.S. Census Bureau is taking a significant step this year by including questions about sexual orientation and gender identity in its American Community Survey. In an effort to gain comprehensive insights into American life, the statistical agency will send test questions to 480,000 households, with an estimated response rate of just over fifty percent.
If approved, this will mark the first time that the American Community Survey will include inquiries about sexual orientation and gender identity. Currently, the survey covers various topics such as commuting times, internet access, family life, income, education levels, disabilities, and military service. The inclusion of these new questions aims to provide a more accurate representation of the American population in terms of diverse identities and orientations.
During the testing phase, individuals will have the option to respond to these questions via different methods, including online submissions, mail, phone calls, or in-person interviews. Considering privacy concerns, the agency is proposing the use of flashcards during in-person interviews and numbered response categories for those who wish to keep their answers confidential from other household members.
Let's take a closer look at the proposed test questions. For everyone, the first question will focus on gender and specifically asks about the sex assigned at birth, offering the options of male or female. For individuals aged 15 and above, the second gender question will inquire about their current gender. Response options include male, female, transgender, nonbinary, and there will also be an option to provide a write-in response for those who prefer a different term.
To determine whether respondents should have the opportunity to select multiple answers for the second gender question, the agency will test two different approaches. Comparisons will be made between responses that allow multiple categories and those that only permit one choice. Additionally, the Census Bureau plans to add a 'verification' question for individuals whose answers to the two gender questions do not align.
In addition to the gender-related questions, the survey will also include a question about sexual orientation. Respondents will be asked to indicate which description best represents how they think of themselves. The options provided will include gay or lesbian, straight (not gay or lesbian), bisexual, and there will also be an opportunity for write-in responses for those who prefer different terms.
The inclusion of these questions in the American Community Survey is a significant step towards understanding and acknowledging the diversity of the American population. By collecting data on sexual orientation and gender identity, policymakers and researchers will be better equipped to address the needs and experiences of different communities. However, it is important to note that these questions are still in the testing phase, and their final inclusion in the survey will be determined based on the outcomes of this testing process.
The U.S. Census Bureau aims to ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to be accurately counted and represented in their surveys. These new questions reflect the agency's commitment to capturing a comprehensive picture of American life, including the experiences of people from various sexual orientations and gender identities. The data collected will contribute to a better understanding of the diverse communities that make up the United States, ultimately leading to more informed decision-making and policies that promote inclusivity and equality.
