Pgh Lesbian Correspondents

The Heinz History Center announced plans to rename the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum after Franco Harris.

Renowned for his athletic prowess and accomplishments, Franco was also a savvy businessman and generous philanthropist. The only Pittsburgher who could top any list with Franco is Mr. Fred Rogers. How fortunate we are here in Pittsburgh to have these truly great and humble men, their legacies reminding us to aspire to greatness while always being kind.

Sometimes when I am feeling devastated by the decay of our federal government, I think of them both. I can’t imagine either would abide with kidnapping neighbors and terrorizing communities. It isn’t so much that I know what they would do as I know they would do something to bolster us and help us persevere.

As you may know, Franco’s legacy is part of my work through his son’s F. Dok Initiatives and the magnificent vehicle we use for our pet food pantry. It isn’t just the tools, it is the look on people’s faces when I tell them that Gertie is connected to Franco albeit indirectly.

Inevitable, they tell me their Franco story or stories. The proximity to someone so important to Pittsburgh is a powerful reminder of the ties that bind. Franco had no direct tie to a pet food pantry, but in Pittsburgh – indirect ties are so significant. Sometimes when I drive Gertie, I wonder what he would think. I wonder what my own father would think – he’d be ecstatic.

People feel good about our work, donors and recipients because it’s indirectly tied to this amazing man. It breaks down barriers, sparks conversations, and reminds us what connects us.

Just like my preschool memories of a visit from Mr. Rogers has remained with me my entire life, I known that the AAA mechanic who worked on the Defender they day before Thanksgiving now had a great story to share – indirect, but still great.

But what concerns me is when younger folx or new Pittsburghers don’t recognize his name.

A full museum is a powerful way to educate future generations about Franco and other sports figures whose contributions to our region shape us, define us. Now anyone who might say “Who was Franco Harris?” will have a lot of opportunity to find out.

Life is so hard right now, we must cling to the good folx whose legacies structured our lives. There will never be another Franco Harris. And now his stories, our stories with him, will be a more permanent fixture in the region.

For me, it will always be the LIHEAP commercials “I’m Franco Harris and I want you to stay warm this winter,” speaking to the most vulnerable among us, reducing stigma, and lifting up a safety net program vital to our community. As a volunteer, not a paid ambassador. That’s the very best example of using privilege to help others. It still brings tears to my eyes.