Thank God for Mississippi

Abstract

This concluding chapter revisits a concept from the introduction: that Mississippi’s persistent educational shortcomings and oppressive actions cause leaders of other states to remark, “Thank God for Mississippi,” as the state keeps others out of the bottom of national rankings. We ask if this sentiment could be reinterpreted in light of resistance work going on in the state. We describe the ways in which Mississippi can render legible the workings of oppression, and serve as a bellwether of oppressive efforts that might migrate to other states. We also describe the ways that resistance work in Mississippi can be instructive for those working elsewhere. Finally, we offer theories about moving toward social justice and equity in Mississippi adult and higher education.