Wilson Thanks IRI for Advancing the March of Freedom
March 9, 2004
Today, Congressman Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) made the following remarks from the House Floor: "Mr. Speaker, one of my life goals in public service has been to promote democracy and freedom throughout the world. A leading proponent of this goal is the International Republican Institute, widely revered as IRI. Founded in 1983, this visionary nonprofit organization responded to President Ronald Reagan's call in 1982 that ‘we must be staunch in our conviction that freedom is not the sole prerogative of a lucky few but the inalienable and universal right of all human beings,'" said Congressman Wilson.
Watch Video"IRI has advanced the march of freedom by teaching nations recovering from communist, authoritarian, and totalitarian regimes how to self-govern through the rule of law. IRI adheres to the fundamental American principles of individual freedom, equal opportunity and the entrepreneurial spirit that fosters economic development. "I have seen IRI's success firsthand in Bulgaria, as I joined a delegation to observe their first free elections since victory in the Cold War. They have democracy efforts in 56 countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, China, Slovakia, and Russia. "I want to personally thank IRI's president, George A. Folsom, for his commitment to bringing the hope of freedom to people all over the world."In conclusion, may God bless our troops and we will never forget September the 11th.," said Congressman Wilson.###
Watch Video"IRI has advanced the march of freedom by teaching nations recovering from communist, authoritarian, and totalitarian regimes how to self-govern through the rule of law. IRI adheres to the fundamental American principles of individual freedom, equal opportunity and the entrepreneurial spirit that fosters economic development. "I have seen IRI's success firsthand in Bulgaria, as I joined a delegation to observe their first free elections since victory in the Cold War. They have democracy efforts in 56 countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, China, Slovakia, and Russia. "I want to personally thank IRI's president, George A. Folsom, for his commitment to bringing the hope of freedom to people all over the world."In conclusion, may God bless our troops and we will never forget September the 11th.," said Congressman Wilson.###