Greater New Jericho Missionary Baptist Church in Sallis hosted civil rights icon Dr. James H. Meredith, a Kosciusko native, for its 17th annual Men's Day. Meredith was the first African American student at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) and lead the June 1966 Meredith March 
Against Fear.
During his remarks Saturday night, he encouraged the community to play a role in raising today’s youth. Meredith called church and schools the most important organizations in this role.
Meredith spoke to a packed audience on the need for societal uplift, based on the Church's role of yesteryears. Meredith touched upon Biblical principles to lift up and sustain the community.
Meredith gave homage to teachers and leaders of his community during his childhood, Mrs. Pollie Pierce, Mrs. Mary C. Walker and Mr. William White, among others. Meredith was presented with a recognition award by the church and after dinner, he entertained questions.
Meredith told The Star-Herald that he is saddened by the recent increase in violent crime in Attala County.
“It has gotten to be almost every week, if not every day,” he said. “It just tells me that the older folk here aren’t doing their job.”
