Video: Civil Rights Icon Encourages Middle School Students To Act Responsible And Mentor Younger Children

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PLANTERSVILLE, MISS. (WCBI) – Music filled the Plantersville Middle School gym during a Monday morning Black History Program.

As well as a message from James Meredith.

He was the first African American student admitted to the segregated University of Mississippi in 1962.

Meredith spoke about a famous photo from that time, showing him as the only student in a college class on his first day at Ole Miss.

“Everybody said, that was a bad thing, that was the best thing that ever happened to me. Don’t you understand, I went to Ole Miss to learn what the teachers were teaching , so the first day, the only one that heard the teachers was me,” Meredith said.

The 82 year old told students about his most important source of education and wisdom.

“Everybody talks about me going to Ole Miss, but that ain’t the important part of my education, the important part of my education is the Bible,” he said.

He told students that they can make a big difference, no matter how young.

“Jesus Christ was already out there doing His job at 12, his folks missed Him, went back looking for Him. Jesus, what are you doing up in here, He said I’m taking care of God’s business,” Meredith said.

Students says they are inspired by Meredith and his actions that made a difference.

“I believe teenagers in this time should teach young kids how to learn and teach them good from bad and right from wrong,” said Fifth Grader Makenzie Metcalf.

“I would like to say to all the people out there, don’t be afraid, to do whatever it needs to be to lead this world. There’s younger people out there, younger black men, kids period, we need to be inspired,” said Sixth Grader Malachi Witherspoon.

Meredith is hopeful his audience will continue learning, and teaching wherever they go.

Meredith had several of his books for sale, and spent time visiting with students and teachers after the program.