United States Census 2000 Information For American Indians This April the 2000 Census will occur and it is vital that every American Indian family participates so an accurate count can provide increased funding for many crucial programs. By correctly identifying your Tribal membership on the census form you are helping to properly fund the many programs that assist you and your family. These programs include health care, employment training services, childcare, emergency services and educational support. The 1990 census undercounted a vast number of Native Americans. In one instance the American Indian population of Siskiyou County was listed as having 33 members of the Karuk Tribe when, according to a Tribally conducted Census, there are in fact nearly 1000 Karuk people who reside there. Under counting of the American Indian populace in the last Census created a variety of serious issues. These problems include; less funds for health care, reduced employment training services, limited access to childcare, diminished emergency services and lower educational opportunities. BE COUNTED! -- André Cramblit, Operations Director The Northern California Indian Development Council ( http://www.ncidc.org ) NCIDC is a non-profit organization that helps meet the social, educational, and economic development needs of American Indian communities. NCIDC operates a fine art gallery and gift boutique featuring the best of American Indian Artist's and their work, with emphasis placed on the work of the Tribes of N.W. California. (http://www.ncidc.org/gift/gifthome.htm#anchorgift)