When most Americans hear the word Iraq, they assume that the conversation will be about bombs, violence, oil, or politics. While these are important modern issues, they make us forget that Iraq is home to one of the world’s first civilizations dating back 6000 years. Since that time, Iraq's diverse people have given so much to the world through contributions to art, science, music, literature, and philosophy. EPIC Program Manager Taif Jany talks with celebrated Iraqi poet, activist, and human rights lawyer Amal al-Jabouri about the challenges to free speech that she faced prior to the 2003 US-led invasion, the importance of sharing Iraq's story with the world, and the role of young women in shaping Iraq's future. This episode is also available in Arabic on SoundCloud.