Resident raises racism and access concerns at Meridian Activity Center

Rose Walker, a Meridian resident, told the council she has faced repeated incidents at the Meridian Activity Center that made her feel unwelcome and said she has received “so much racism” there. Walker said she attempted to meet with the mayor and staff and tried to start a senior program; she reported that many longtime Black residents said they had never heard of the activity center or felt they were not allowed to attend. Walker said she paid out of pocket to provide snacks and prizes for a community cards group she organized to encourage participation but that outreach met resistance. She said she raised the issue with Meridian Activity Center staff (named in the transcript as Cathy) and with a Ms. Jordan but that attempts to resolve the problem had not succeeded. Walker asked the council to address her concerns; the presiding official offered to have someone speak with her after the meeting. The transcript records Walker's allegation and her request for assistance; it does not show follow‑up actions, an investigation, or comments from Meridian Activity Center management during the meeting.