During his swearing-in ceremony as our new governor, Josh Shapiro said, “Pennsylvanians can indeed find light in the midst of darkness and drown out the voices of hate and bigotry. ... Here in Pennsylvania, we didn’t allow the extremists who peddle lies to drown out the truth. ... We assume this obligation to defend democracy not merely to honor the work of our ancestors but rather to build on a foundation so we can make progress for our children.”

I hear the life and legacy of Franco Harris echoing in those words and, indeed, the beloved Pittsburgh and American legend campaigned alongside candidate Shapiro in the final days leading up to Nov. 8. Franco’s message was earnest, urgent, impassioned: “It’s important for us to get young people out to vote. That’s why we’re here also. Get these young people interested in their government, and they can make a difference.”

Franco Harris was a cynicism- annihilating force for good in Pittsburgh and an example to the world of living from the heart with values of positivity, humility and human decency.

Let’s commit to working to live up to his legacy, and leave everything on the field in 2023 in the spirit of 32.

David Ninehouser

Ambridge

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