A few weeks ago Moon high school welcomed Chris Deluzio, the U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District, for a special visit with students and faculty. Deluzio spent time speaking with students about government, public service, and the importance of staying involved in civic life.
Chris Deluzio currently serves in the U.S. House of Representatives representing communities in Western Pennsylvania. Before entering Congress, he served as an officer in the U.S. Navy and later worked as a voting rights attorney and professor of law. His background in both military service and law has shaped his focus on protecting democratic institutions, supporting working families, and strengthening local communities. As a representative, he works on legislation that affects issues such as the economy, national security, and the rights of American citizens.
During the visit, Deluzio met with the Model UN, Mock Trial, and AP Government and Politics students, where he discussed what his work in Congress looks like on a daily basis. He explained how legislation is created, debated, and passed, while also sharing examples of issues currently affecting communities across Western Pennsylvania. Students were able to ask questions about topics ranging from national policy to how someone begins a career in politics or law.
One of the highlights of the visit was the open discussion between Deluzio and students. Many students asked thoughtful questions about the responsibilities of elected officials and how young people can become more involved in shaping their communities. Deluzio emphasized that civic engagement does not begin after college or adulthood, it starts with students paying attention to the issues around them and participating in discussions about the future.
Deluzio also spoke about the importance of leadership and public service. Drawing from his own experiences, he encouraged students to pursue careers that allow them to make a positive impact, whether that is through government, law, business, or community organizations. He stressed that democracy depends on people who are willing to stay informed and take part in the political process.
Many students had the opportunity to speak one on one with Deluzio, making it a unique opportunity to interact directly with a member of Congress and learn about government beyond what is taught in textbooks. Events like this help connect classroom learning with real-world experiences and inspire students to think about their potential role in shaping the future.
Overall, Deluzio’s visit gave students valuable insight into how government works and why civic participation matters. The conversation left many students feeling more informed and motivated to stay engaged with the issues that affect their communities.
