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.