Letter to the editor:

The census is in what is most likely its final phase, and only a few more days remain. I received praise for my work and I wish the best for my co-workers and everyone on the operational level. Nevertheless, I tendered my letter of resignation as of July 17. Why? Because the repetitive intrusiveness inherent in the current operation provokes antagonism and ill will from those we interview.

This sentiment has gradually escalated phase by phase, from cooperation to reluctance, to irritation, to hostility. What’s next? These are my neighbors. What price is the bureau willing to pay for increased (statistical) cooperation?

Asking for someone’s personal information for a fourth or fifth time in a four-month period is an exercise in alienation. Especially when those interviewed point out that the government not only has that information, but that it can be generally obtained from the Internet. This does not bode well for future interactions with the public.

This concern, from an on-the-ground perspective, is an elephant in the room. Short memories? Not in Fairbanks. I enjoy getting out and about, and when all else goes awry, I choose integrity over self-preservation. So when I begin to find myself agreeing with angry respondents, .. something’s gotta give. And although I need the income, THE EXTENT of what I’ve been tasked to do conflicts with my view of the America I grew up in. I hope no one gets physically harmed. The psychological impact will remain.

To the shakers and movers at the highest echelons of decision making, I say “stop re-opening the wounds.” I can safely, well, with certainty, say that they would be hard pressed to find an ex co-worker who disagrees with my assertions.

I love my country and I am not anti-government. But I am opposed to the excessive use of the tools at its disposal. Those at the highest levels of influence are gauging our will to resist excesses.