Percy Bland

Our Mississippi Magazine and Legends Publishing selected Meridian Mayor Percy Bland as one of 25 Most Influential African Americans in Mississippi.

Magazine publisher Wesley Wells recently announced the recipients, who were selected by an independent panel of business and community leaders from across the state. The publication did not participate in the selection process, according to a news release from the magazine.

Selections were made in the areas of business, education, servant leadership to include government, military and civic service, religious/spiritual and the professions.

“I am humbled and thrilled to be recognized as a mover and shaker in the State of Mississippi,” Bland said in a statement provided by the magazine. “One of greatest privileges of being Mayor is the people of Meridian. It is an honor to serve a community rich and vibrant with growing assets and possibilities. I want to continue to make a difference in the lives of those in this community and make a positive impact on the quality of life for all.”

Six notable Mississippians have been selected to be honored as Legacies as part of the Mississippi’s 25 Most-Influential African Americans honors ceremony in Jackson. They include Myrlie Evers-Williams, James Meredith, Reuben Anderson, Bennie Thompson, Constance Slaughter-Harvey and Robert Clark, according to the news release.

The group will be honored at an awards gala and reception on Oct. 25 at the Westin Hotel in Jackson.