Don’t let our Greek heritage be erased from history, participate in the 2011 Census. According to the 2006 Canadian census, there were 242,685 Canadians who claimed Greek ethnicity. It is vital that all Canadians of Greek descent declare their ancestry.
Canada’s 15th decennial census starts May 2, when households in Canada will receive a yellow census package. May 10 is census reference day, and counting activities cease on 29 Jul. The results will be released in 2012.
You should take note of the question and check the Yes box. If No is checked or if the question is left blank, future generations may be left holding an empty bag.
Statistics Canada, the government branch responsible for taking and preserving the Canada Census, is the one posing the question. It will ask, just as it did in 2006, for “respondents’ permission to release their personal information after 92 years.” Without permission, Statics Canada cannot forward records to Library and Archives Canada for public release after the waiting period. “Questions left blank are viewed as a “no” response.”
Census returns are one of the few records left behind by past generations in which genealogists can piece together family units. Through this one source, researchers can learn the names, relationships, birth dates and ethnic origins of a family.
Another way to help future generations learn about you and your family tree is to leave comments in the Note section.
Every person living in Canada, as well as Canadians working outside the country, are legally bound to complete a census form.
New this year is the National Household Survey (NHS). It had been part of the regular census through the long-form questionnaire and had been mandatory. The NHS arrives at homes in early June. Completion is voluntary. Questions posed include activity limitations, citizenship and immigration, language, ethnic origin, place of birth of parents and many others. Everyone who receives the NHS is encouraged to complete it.
To learn more about the 2011 Census, including information on the option to complete the questionnaire online, visit Statistics Canada (http://census2011.gc.ca/).
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