CAIR on AIR - Beyond the Courtroom and Behind the Headlines

Edward Ahmed Mitchell

For years, America's largest Muslim civil rights organization has fought for justice in the courts of law and the halls of power. But the fight doesn't stop there. The court of public opinion matters just much. CAIR on Air is a brand-new weekly podcast that gives the American public an inside look at the pursuits and struggles of the American Muslim community, behind the headlines and beyond the courtroom. Hosted by civil rights attorney and CAIR Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell and a rotating line-up of co-hosts, CAIR on Air is a space for direct, unfiltered conversation with supporters, partners, and anyone in the broader American public curious about key issues impacting the Muslim community and the nation. From free speech and religious liberty to anti-Muslim hate and U.S. foreign policy, no topic is off the table. Guests include attorneys, anti-war activists, elected officials, journalists, and everyday Americans of all faiths committed to justice. Join us every week to go beyond the courtroom and behind the headlines.

Episodes

  1. The Full Story Of The Palestinian American Killed In The West Bank w/ Kamel Musallet

    4h ago ·  Video

    The Full Story Of The Palestinian American Killed In The West Bank w/ Kamel Musallet

    Kamel Musallet is a Palestinian American businessman, father, and advocate who has spoken out internationally following the killing of his 20 year old son, Saifullah Musallet. Since the tragedy, Kamel has become a powerful voice calling for accountability, justice, and greater awareness of the realities Palestinians are facing in the occupied territories. In today’s episode, Kamel joins me to share who his son really was before the headlines, what brought him back to Palestine, and the devastating chain of events that changed his family forever. Kamel explains the growing tensions in the West Bank, the escalating violence surrounding Palestinian villages, and the daily fears many families living there face. Our discussion also goes into the emotional toll of losing a child, what happened in the hours after his son was attacked, and why Kamel believes there has still been no real accountability despite the international attention surrounding the case. Kamel shares how his family changed after the tragedy, the restrictions they now face, and why people must understand what is happening beyond the headlines and political talking points. Join us today as we talk about Saifullah Musallet’s death, its local and international impact, the fight to stay connected to one’s homeland, and the deeper realities of life in the West Bank that many people never get to hear firsthand.

    31 min
  2. Why Muslims Are Losing Political Power In The UK w/ Dr. Muhammad Wajid Akhtar

    May 21 ·  Video

    Why Muslims Are Losing Political Power In The UK w/ Dr. Muhammad Wajid Akhtar

    Dr. Muhammad Wajid Akhtar is a doctor, community leader, and Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain, the UK’s largest Muslim umbrella organization representing hundreds of mosques, charities, schools, and community organizations. He previously served as Vice President of the British Islamic Medical Association and has led initiatives focused on healthcare, civic engagement, and Muslim community empowerment across the UK. In today’s episode of CAIR On AIR, Dr. Akhtar joins me to discuss the major political shift happening in Britain and why so many Muslims are deeply concerned about the rise of right-wing politics, anti-Muslim rhetoric, and increasing social division. Dr. Akhtar breaks down the major factors fueling support for political movements targeting Muslims and immigrants. He explains why the right wing has become more effective at creating division and why progressive movements have struggled with focus. We dive into the political disengagement within Muslim communities and why many Muslims failed to participate in recent elections despite understanding what was at stake. Dr. Akhtar also explains the importance of building real political infrastructure, leadership, and community coordination. Our discussion also covers the dangers of fear, hopelessness, and community fragmentation. Dr. Akhtar shares why unity, organization, and political engagement are becoming more important than ever. Join us today as we discuss the rise of anti-Muslim politics, why many people are turning toward the far right, the failures of Muslim political organizations, lessons from history, the importance of leadership and unity, how communities can build long term power, and much more.

    33 min
  3. What Americans Are Finally Realizing About Gaza, U.S. Politics, and Endless War w/ Rashida Tlaib

    May 13 ·  Video

    What Americans Are Finally Realizing About Gaza, U.S. Politics, and Endless War w/ Rashida Tlaib

    Rashida Tlaib is a U.S. Congresswoman representing Michigan’s 12th Congressional District, the first Palestinian American woman elected to Congress, and a leading voice on civil rights, economic justice, anti war policy, and Palestinian human rights. In today’s episode, Rashida joins me to discuss the growing public outrage over the war in Gaza, the role grassroots movements play in forcing political change, and why more Americans across party lines are rejecting endless wars and genocide. We dive into why Congress only moves when ordinary people organize, apply pressure, and hold elected officials accountable. Rashida explains why Americans from different faiths, backgrounds, and political affiliations are speaking out against war, military spending, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. We also talk about corporate greed, defense contractors, political corruption, and their effects on everyday citizens. Rashida also explains Medicare for All, living wages, workers rights, the influence of defense and weapons manufacturing companies in politics, and why so many Americans feel ignored by their government. Our discussion also covers civic engagement beyond voting, the importance of staying rooted in community, and the need for marginalized voices to step into leadership. Join us today as we discuss Gaza, anti war movements, political accountability, economic injustice, grassroots organizing, healthcare, corporate greed, representation in government, and much more.

    25 min
  4. Why More Americans Are Turning Against Israel & Supporting Palestine w/ Dr. Osama Abu Irshaid

    May 6 ·  Video

    Why More Americans Are Turning Against Israel & Supporting Palestine w/ Dr. Osama Abu Irshaid

    Dr. Osama Abu Irshaid is the Executive Director of American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) and Americans for Justice in Palestine Action (AJP Action). He is a widely recognized Palestinian-American activist, political analyst, author, and public speaker who frequently lectures on Middle Eastern affairs, U.S. foreign policy, civil rights, and Palestine advocacy. In today’s episode of CAIR On AIR, Dr. Osama joins me to discuss the dramatic shifts in American public opinion on Palestine, and why more Americans than ever are questioning U.S. foreign policy toward Israel and Gaza. We dive into the role social media, grassroots activism, and intersectional movements have played in changing the national conversation around Palestine. Dr. Osama explains why organizations like American Muslims for Palestine, Council on American-Islamic Relations, Jewish Voice for Peace, and other advocacy groups have become major targets for political attacks and censorship efforts. We also talk about the growing concerns around free speech, constitutional rights, and what Dr. Osama sees as increasing government overreach against activists, students, nonprofits, and political dissenters in America. Our conversation also covers the influence of lobbying groups, the role of money in U.S. politics, and why many Americans feel disconnected from politicians who continue to support wars abroad while economic struggles increase at home. Join us today as we dive into Palestine advocacy in America, the fight for free speech, shifting public opinion on Israel and Gaza, political accountability, constitutional rights, and the growing movement pushing for justice both abroad and at home.

    37 min
  5. What Happens To Muslims In and After Prison? The System Is Broken & Here's The Fix w/ DeBorah Boneta

    Apr 29 ·  Video

    What Happens To Muslims In and After Prison? The System Is Broken & Here's The Fix w/ DeBorah Boneta

    DeBorah Boneta is the director, advocate, and chaplain for Oklahoma Prison Support, where she works directly with incarcerated individuals, their families, and those reentering society after prison. She is Oklahoma's first African American Certified Sign Language Interpreter and the pioneering Islamic Chaplain serving those housed in jail and prison spaces. In today’s episode of CAIR On AIR, DeBorah joins us to share how she built a prison ministry from the ground up, the unique challenges Muslims face in and after prison, and why incarceration is not just a legal issue but a human problem. We dive into the systemic gaps in Oklahoma’s incarceration system and the barriers individuals face when transitioning back into society. DeBorah also shares powerful success stories of formerly incarcerated individuals rebuilding their lives, along with the real impact of community support, from Ramadan initiatives to mentorship and advocacy. Our conversation explores how DeBorah built trust within prison systems, overcame misconceptions about Islam, and created opportunities for both Muslims and people of all faiths. DeBorah also shares advice for people wanting to start prison ministry and the impact of youth organizations like Muslim Student Associations and advocacy groups. Join us today as we dive into prison ministry, justice reform, faith based advocacy, supporting incarcerated Muslims, building community impact, empowering the next generation, and how you can make a difference no matter your background.

    28 min
  6. Detained For Speaking Out? Inside Salah Sarsour's Case w/ Munjed Ahmad & Kate Brady

    Apr 22 ·  Video

    Detained For Speaking Out? Inside Salah Sarsour's Case w/ Munjed Ahmad & Kate Brady

    Munjed Ahmad is a seasoned immigration attorney with over 25 years of experience representing individuals in complex deportation and civil rights cases. He is also serving as Salah Sarsour’s attorney. Kate Brady is the Immigration Litigation Department Head at the Muslim Legal Fund of America (MLFA), where she leads federal court litigation focused on defending non-citizens’ rights. In today’s episode of CAIR On AIR, Munjed and Kate join me to discuss the case of Salah Sarsour, president of the Islamic Society of Milwaukee (who was detained for refusing to remain silent on Palestinian issues), and the broader legal issues connected to it. We dive into Salah’s background, his leadership role in his community, and how his situation developed into a complex case that has drawn wider attention. Kate explains the arguments being used against Salah and how immigration law interacts with constitutional protections. She also shares the factors that make cases like Salah’s different from standard immigration proceedings and how complicated they become. Munjed also provides insight into how cases like this are handled behind the scenes, including the preparations involved, the legal strategies used, and the challenges attorneys face while navigating multiple layers of the legal system. Join us today to gain a clearer understanding of Salah Sarsour’s case, how legal battles work, and what every citizen, non-citizen, and immigrant needs to know about the state of free speech in the U.S.

    36 min
  7. How Muslims & Other Minority Groups Became Political Targets in America w/ Veronica Laizure

    Apr 15 ·  Video

    How Muslims & Other Minority Groups Became Political Targets in America w/ Veronica Laizure

    Veronica Laizure is the Executive Director of CAIR Oklahoma and a National Staff Attorney, where she works on the front lines defending Muslim civil rights and helping other minority communities navigate discrimination, bias, and systemic injustice. In today’s episode, Veronica joins me to break down the reality of civil rights for Muslims and other minority groups in America and how she began actively protecting Muslim communities across Oklahoma and beyond. We dive into the history of Oklahoma and the events that fueled Islamophobia and shaped how Muslims are perceived today. Veronica also explains why Muslims and other minority communities are often at the center of political targeting and why these cycles continue to repeat. We talk about the evolution of modern politics and why division is more tense than ever. Veronica also shares a powerful perspective on what will bring real change and how Muslims and other communities can stand against injustice. Our conversation goes into what real allyship looks like, why most activism is surface level, and how to foster consistent action and true support for each other. Join us today as we dive into how Muslims and other communities are navigating rising division, pushing back against systemic injustice, and building something stronger in the process.

    30 min
  8. The Truth About Islamophobia & How Anti-Muslim Policies Are Reshaping America w/ Corey Saylor

    Apr 8 ·  Video

    The Truth About Islamophobia & How Anti-Muslim Policies Are Reshaping America w/ Corey Saylor

    Corey Saylor is the Research and Advocacy Director at CAIR (Council on American Islamic Relations), where he leads the organization’s national civil rights reporting and advocacy efforts. He is the primary author behind CAIR’s annual Civil Rights Reports, which are widely cited by policymakers, media outlets, and researchers to track Islamophobia trends in the United States. In today’s episode of CAIR On AIR, Corey joins me to break down CAIR’s 2026 Civil Rights Report and what it reveals about the current state of America. He shares insights from thousands of cases and explains why this moment feels like a major turning point for the country. We dive into the rise of Islamophobia and the spread of discrimination against Muslims in workplaces, universities, and government driven policies. Corey also breaks down real world examples and explains how rhetoric from leaders directly impacts everyday people. We discuss the broader “culture war” happening in America, the role of media and technology in spreading misinformation, and how historical patterns of exclusion repeat themselves today. Corey also explains how narratives around identity create division and affect public perception. Join us today as we dive into the reality behind the headlines, understand the forces driving discrimination, and learn what actually works to push the country toward justice and equity.Disclaimer: 'The Johnson-Reed Act was passed in 1924, Saylor says another year twice."

    41 min
  9. Inside Trump's Religious Liberty Commission: Sameerah Munshi Speaks on Gaza, Free Speech, Antisemitism, & Islamophobia

    Apr 3 ·  Video

    Inside Trump's Religious Liberty Commission: Sameerah Munshi Speaks on Gaza, Free Speech, Antisemitism, & Islamophobia

    Sameerah Munshi is an advisor to President Trump’s Religious Liberty Commission and a policy advocate focused on protecting religious freedom and ensuring that minority voices are represented in government. In today’s episode, Sameerah joins me to discuss the Religious Liberty Commission, how it works, and what it’s like to represent Muslim perspectives in high-level government discussions on faith and freedom. We dive into Sameerah’s background in interfaith advocacy and the activism that first brought her national attention. She also shares what happened behind the scenes during commission hearings, including the reactions her testimony about Gaza and Palestine received from commissioners and attendees. We discuss the controversy surrounding a hearing on antisemitism, rejected witnesses, and the debate over whether criticism of Israel is being wrongly labeled as antisemitism. Our conversation also covers the rise of Islamophobia in politics, how narratives about religion influence public opinion, and the importance of minority communities speaking up. Join us as we explore religious liberty in America, free speech around Gaza and Palestine, the realities of participating in government commissions, shifting public opinion in the U.S., and the fight against Islamophobia.

    36 min

  10. Mar 27 ·  Video

    War With Iran: What Iranian Americans Really Think w/ Jamal Abdi

    Jamal Abdi is the National Executive Director of the National Iranian American Council (NIAC), an organization that advocates for diplomacy, civil rights, and accurate representation of Iranian Americans in U.S. politics. Jamal joins us today to discuss the escalating war involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. He also explains the mission of NIAC and how the organization was founded. We dive into how Iranian Americans are often portrayed in mainstream media and why that narrative can be misleading. Jamal explains why the community is far more diverse in its views than many people think and why many Iranian Americans oppose foreign led regime change despite their criticisms of Iran’s current government. Jamal breaks down the political dynamics behind the conflict, including the role of U.S. policymakers, the influence of lobbying groups, and the debate inside Congress over war powers. We also discuss the different possible outcomes of the war and the possible impacts of the lack of a long term plan. We explore how American public opinion is shifting on Middle East conflicts, what lessons policymakers should have learned from the Iraq War, and why many Americans are increasingly skeptical of new military interventions. Join us today as we dive into the Iran conflict, how media narratives shape public perception, the role of U.S. politics in foreign wars, and what a more peaceful future between the United States and Iran could look like for both nations and their people.

    32 min
  11. Introducing CAIR On AIR: The Podcast on Muslim Rights in America

    Season 1 Trailer ·  Video

    Introducing CAIR On AIR: The Podcast on Muslim Rights in America

    Most people don’t hear directly from Muslim voices. They hear headlines. They hear opinions. But not the full story. That’s the gap the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is working to fix. CAIR is the largest Muslim civil rights organization in the United States, and after years of fighting legal battles and defending civil rights, we’re creating a space for direct, unfiltered conversations. No media spin. No filters. I’m Edward Ahmed Mitchell, a civil rights attorney and the Deputy Director of CAIR, and in this episode, I break down what CAIR actually does, the issues impacting Muslim communities, and why this podcast matters now. If you want the real story behind the headlines… Subscribe to join the community, and turn on your notifications so you don’t miss upcoming episodes.

    3 min

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

For years, America's largest Muslim civil rights organization has fought for justice in the courts of law and the halls of power. But the fight doesn't stop there. The court of public opinion matters just much. CAIR on Air is a brand-new weekly podcast that gives the American public an inside look at the pursuits and struggles of the American Muslim community, behind the headlines and beyond the courtroom. Hosted by civil rights attorney and CAIR Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell and a rotating line-up of co-hosts, CAIR on Air is a space for direct, unfiltered conversation with supporters, partners, and anyone in the broader American public curious about key issues impacting the Muslim community and the nation. From free speech and religious liberty to anti-Muslim hate and U.S. foreign policy, no topic is off the table. Guests include attorneys, anti-war activists, elected officials, journalists, and everyday Americans of all faiths committed to justice. Join us every week to go beyond the courtroom and behind the headlines.

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