Mississippi's ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment marked a significant moment in reflecting the legal journey of slavery in the United States. After the amendment was initially approved by Congress in early 1865, it effectively abolished slavery nationwide, with most states ratifying it shortly thereafter. However, Mississippi failed to formally finalize its approval until 1995, making it the last state to do so. This long delay resulted from various factors, including the complexities of historical records and an oversight of legislative procedures. The state legislature's action in March 1995 aimed to rectify this historical anomaly, bringing Mississippi in line with the constitutional framework that established freedom and equal rights for all individuals. The ratification process included discussions on the civil rights struggles faced in the Southern states during the 20th century, emphasizing a collective acknowledgment of the historical injustices associated with slavery.

The ratification took place without much fanfare in Jackson, Mississippi, where government officials highlighted the importance of closure with regards to this deeply rooted issue. The move symbolized Mississippi’s continued evolution towards recognizing civil rights and reflected broader societal changes in attitudes towards slavery and race relations. The action was an opportunity for reflection on the state's past, a past characterized by a legacy of racial discrimination but also the growing acknowledgment of civil rights advancements. Despite the amendment having been part of federal law for over a century, Mississippi's ratification highlighted ongoing challenges in achieving true equality under the law.