re: Hard to have an intelligent conversation
Can you explain how I failed to answer your question? Or show the lack of relevance in my answer?
CAIR is what they call an "astroturf" operation, a front for other interests behind the scenes. Their IRS information blacked out the major donors, but other sources point to various Arab nations. While this isn't in itself evil, it should not be hidden, either. CAIR is currently connected to the Federal investigation of the Holy Land Foundation and its possible Hamas funding channels.
Tony's right about one thing: the mainstream media has a pretty good spike going on this subject.