When Kelly Fuller learned four years ago she had been nominated to the Natchez Mayor’s Youth Council, she almost declined the offer.

&uot;I was the little shy girl,&uot; Fuller said. &uot;But once I went, I loved it.&uot;

The Natchez High School senior is now president of the council and says the experience is more than just fun, it’s taught her valuable leadership skills.

&uot;Now I’m not afraid to get up and talk in front of people,&uot; Fuller said.

And that’s just what she did Tuesday night after accepting a proclamation from Mayor F.L. &uot;Hank&uot; Smith at the Board of Aldermen meeting that designates Saturday as the youth council’s Make a Difference Day.

Fuller encouraged the aldermen and those present to attend the day’s highlight: &uot;One Natchez — a rally against racism.&uot;

&uot;Basically, (the youth council) just decided we are the youth of Natchez and we want to stand up and admit we have a problem with racism,&uot; Fuller said Wednesday.

The rally will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. at Main Street Marketplace. Speakers will include youth council members, local elected officials and high school students who will give personal accounts about their experiences with racism.

&uot;More than anything it’s just going to open (people’s) eyes get them thinking about it,&uot; Fuller said when asked what she hopes the rally will accomplish.

Not only will the rally prove to adults that teenagers care about issues in their community, it will set an example to younger children who often look up to teens, Fuller said.

Fuller said she has no aspirations of becoming a public leader, but believes serving as youth council mayor will help her in other areas of her life.

Youth council has also piqued her interest in the interworkings of local government.

&uot;I think everybody should see how the city is run because it’s such a complex matter,&uot; Fuller said.

Fuller is the daughter of Frank and Pat Fuller of Natchez.