A Conversation with Ambassador Joe Wilson

"The British Government has learned that Saddam Hussein recently sought significant quantities of Uranium from Africa." (President George Bush, State of the Union Address, Jan. 28, 2003)

These 16 words would profoundly change many lives, send the country to war and impact America's moral standing at home and abroad. One person stood up, claiming those 16 words to be false and that Iraq did not purchase uranium from Niger. Joe Wilson has upheld the truth against all odds and has continued to speak out, not for notoriety but duty to country. He is a man of truth, courage and integrity - a true patriot. His unwillingness to remain silent upon hearing those 16 words brings the following quote to mind:

"Even when pressed by the demands of inner truth, men do not easily assume the tasks of opposing their government's policy, especially in time of war. But there comes a time when silence is betrayal." MLK

A native Californian and graduate of U.C. Santa Barbara, Wilson was the last American official to meet with Saddam Hussein before the 1990 Gulf War. He served as acting U.S. Ambassador in Iraq through Operation Desert Storm. Former President H.W. Bush declared Wilson "a true American hero" for his efforts in helping to free more than 100 American hostages in Iraq after Hussein invaded Kuwait.

Admission is free; seating is first come first served. Wilson's book, The Politics of Truth, will be available for purchase.