Day: September 19, 2026

HILLIARD, OH (09/19/2026) — On Saturday, September 19, hundreds of community members, civic advocates, faith leaders, students, and families gathered at The Makoy Center in Hilliard for The 2026 CAIR-Ohio Columbus Banquet: Rising Together for Justice.

 

Framed around an enduring commitment to solidarity and collective resilience, the evening offered one night to honor four outstanding leaders from our own community, to sit with our neighbors, and to support the vital legal and advocacy work of CAIR-Ohio.

 

Each year, the Columbus Banquet serves as a vital gathering for those who understand what it takes to protect vulnerable neighbors and respond when families are targeted by discrimination, bigotry, or injustice. 

 

The evening’s keynote address was delivered by political commentator, author, and media host Cenk Uygur. Addressing an engaged audience, Uygur spoke on the critical importance of independent voices, grassroots civil rights organizing, and holding institutions accountable. His remarks resonated strongly with attendees, emphasizing the necessity of courageous civic participation and standing firm in defense of constitutional liberties, equal justice, and human dignity amid challenging political climates.

 

A central highlight of the banquet was recognizing leaders whose grassroots work, selflessness, and advocacy have carried the community through critical moments. CAIR-Ohio proudly honored:

CAIR-Ohio extends its deepest gratitude to every guest, sponsor, donor, and volunteer whose dedication made this year’s gathering an inspiring success.