Important Ways the Census is Used
For genealogical research. To find information about ancestors you may or may not have previously known existed. To find the make-up of their families and how they evolved through successive censuses. To learn where they lived, their occupations, when and where they were born, ethnic origins, education and religion, etc.
For sociological, demographic, economic and historic research. The census provides historical information on the social structure of Canada—sizes of families, age groupings of children, grandparents and siblings at home, servants and other household attendants, education, religious affiliation, race, ethnic origins, housing, business and agriculture production, immigration, patterns of migration, etc. Historical census data, especially long-term census data series, allow us to research patterns of economic and social inequality, and to examine the roots of important family patterns such as living alone, single-parent families and blended families.
To verify age or date and place of birth when other sources are unavailable, in order to establish eligibility for pensions, etc.
Announcing the first and only online fully-indexed 1911 Census
To prove identity to obtain legal documents, i.e., passports and birth certificates.
To determine descendancy to settle estates where no will has been found.
To provide clues to genetically inherited diseases or disabilities.
To show proof of residency in order to prove land or property title.
To establish legal entitlement as a member of a group, i.e., as a Native Indian.
To verify group residency or land use to settle Aboriginal land claims.
To verify current owners of properties, or heirs of same, where property is to be sold for non-payment of taxes.
To establish or verify original owners of rights of way, mineral rights or foreshore rights.
To ensure your place in the history of Canada.
Source: Gordon A. Watts, “Reasons to say YES,” The Global Gazette
Spread the Word
Send this page to ten people you know, and ask them to forward it to ten people they know.
On May 16, check the "Yes" box and become part of Canada's history.