HERSHEY, PA — At Pennsylvania Family Institute’s Friends of the Family Banquet, Gov. Ron DeSantis delivered a keynote that cut to the heart of our cultural moment: the need for leaders—and citizens—who will stand firm for life, for marriage, and for freedom even when the cost is high.
The Governor began with a light, family-first glimpse of himself and his family’s visit to “the Sweetest Place on Earth,” then quickly turned to the stakes of our public debates. His message echoed what we shared with attendees afterward: it’s the support and partnership of thousands of pro-family Pennsylvanians that make our pro-life, pro-family, and pro-religious liberty work possible—and courageous leadership is how we turn those shared convictions into real-world results.
As Gov DeSantis challenges those in the audience on Saturday,
“Leadership is not cost-free. When you step out and you lead, especially on these issues, you are going to face blowback. They’re going to attack you. They’re going to smear you. They’re going to lie about you. That’s just what’s happened. And you’ve got to have the courage of [your] convictions. You’ve got to understand that the leader has got to be out there calling the plays, calling the shots, and bringing all this in for a landing… When you have people that are willing to do that, dig in, know that it’s not going to be easy, but still stand for what’s right—and not worry about blips in public opinion.”
The fight for life in Pennsylvania
Gov. DeSantis spoke candidly about Florida’s heartbeat protections and the fierce opposition faced along the way. His point landed squarely for Pennsylvania: the debate over life is not theoretical. Our courts and lawmakers will decide whether public policy protects the most vulnerable among us—or bends to the demands of abortion activists and special interests.
His challenge to us was simple and urgent: do what’s right, not what’s easy. In Pennsylvania, that means advancing policies that safeguard unborn children, resisting any attempt to force taxpayers to fund abortion, and electing judges and legislators who will uphold the law and defend human dignity.
Parents, schools, and a culture that tells the truth
Another theme that threads through both the Governor’s record and PA Family Institute’s mission: parents have the right to direct their children’s education. Pennsylvania families deserve classrooms focused on learning—not activism—and schools that protect children from inappropriate content. DeSantis underscored the importance of restoring authority to families and of ensuring students are educated, not indoctrinated.
“You have a right for your kids to be educated, not indoctrinated!”
~ Gov Ron DeSantis
This is an important reminder for parents across our Commonwealth, as we approach the upcoming school board elections.
Freedom requires a spine
From pandemic policy to corporate pressure, DeSantis highlighted moments when standing firm meant facing relentless attacks. The lesson for Pennsylvania leaders—and for all of us—is clear: public service is stewardship, not a poll-tested performance. When the winds shift, convictions shouldn’t.
At PA Family Institute, we see that same courage in everyday Pennsylvanians and in many legislators: parents showing up to meetings, pastors speaking truth with grace, legislators willing to make a public stand in defense of life, and citizens voting their values at the ballot box.
A Pennsylvania where life is cherished
The Governor closed with a charge: this work is possible—with leadership and courage. We agree. Together, we can build a Pennsylvania where God is honored, religious freedom flourishes, families thrive, and life is cherished.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in Hershey and to all who stand with us year-round. Your prayers and generosity keep this mission moving forward.
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City on the Hill is our week-long leadership & worldview camp for high school students.
One of our City on the Hill alumna described how her experience at City on the Hill changed her:
“I’ve not only grown exponentially in my ability to lead and debate my peers, but I’ve also grown in my faith. It is so refreshing to come to a place where Christian ideas are uplifted and celebrated.
It is quite frankly amazing that the Pennsylvania Family Institute has created a unique environment where Christ-centered high schoolers like myself can come and thrive. In just one week, City on the Hill has given me lifelong memories, friends, and the skills that I need to succeed in any career. I highly encourage anyone to come, and I can’t wait for next year.”
Her story shows how Pennsylvania Family Institute is shaping the next generation of leaders—and helping build a Pennsylvania where God is honored, religious freedom flourishes, families thrive, and life is cherished.
NEXT CITY ON THE HILL: July 19-25, 2026 Registration opens January 2026!
