December 2002

Dr. José Piñera
President, International Center for Pension Reform
Co-Chair, Cato Institute Project on Social Security Choice
Cato Institute
1000 Mass. Ave. NW
Washington, D.C. 20001

Dear José,

There is an ancient Chinese proverb that speaks to your pioneering conception and implementation of personal pension accounts, which reads, "At first, there is no road; it is only when one person begins it that others can see it."

Nearly twenty-five years ago you forged a new road, and since then you have shown others around the world, from the U.S. to Russia, the way to greater liberty and prosperity. Who could have envisioned this so many years ago?

Your revolutionary "passbook" and work on pension reform, your inimitable ability to communicate ideas, and your steadfast dedication, promise to revolutionize the world. I am writing because I hope you will allow us the privilege of honoring you for your unparalleled achievement.

It is my great pleasure to extend to you this invitation to receive the Goldwater Institute's 2003 "Champion of Liberty Award" at our 15th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, April 12, 2003.

Previous recipients include President Ronald Reagan, Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, and Nobel Laureate Milton Friedman.

Your pioneering work on pensions and labor reform, and your lifetime of service to the cause of liberty, make you a most worthy recipient.

With roughly 1,000 guests each year, our annual award dinner is the most anticipated and well-attended event of its kind. And, in celebrating our 15th anniversary, we plan to make this year's dinner more magnificent than ever.

Attendees include national legislators, state governors, as well as respected entrepreneurs, members of the media, and friends of liberty. The celebration will take place in the world-famous Biltmore resort in Phoenix.

We all look forward to receiving word of your acceptance at your earliest convenience so that we may plan this spectacular occasion.

Sincerely,