Who Is The Defender?

Since 1930, the Houston Defender Network has been “Raising Black Voices” as we Educate, Entertain and Empower the Greater Black Houston Area. Our history is rich, our presence is powerful and our future is awesome. Learn more about our History, Meet the Team and Hear from our Clients.

Our History

The Richardson family established a foundation the Jiles family builds on today.
Read our story

Testimonials

Community, Celebrities and Clients share their opinion of the Defender.
More client testimonials

Meet The Team

Working non-stop to deliver essential news and information, but always with a dose of fun.
Meet the team

What Is The Defender?

The Houston Defender Network is more than a newspaper or website. It’s a resource providing Houston and Texas African-American news and information on across platforms: social media, email, events, print video, branded content and more.

Rates & Specs

Explore the cost effective methods of reaching Houston’s African-American community.

Audience: By The Numbers

Understand the diversity of who we serve and what their priorities and perspectives are.

Give us your information and we will give you ours.

To receive the Rates & Specs along with our Audience: By The Numbers please complete the form below. Thank you for your interest.
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Why Is The Defender Important?

The Defender is an institution that has served the Black community for over 90 years earning a reputation of respect and credibility. For generations, the Defender has been invaluable, serving as the storytellers of our history, the catalyst for change and an advocate for our culture.

MLK Day @ Children’s Museum

The annual celebration honored the slain civil rights leader’s legacy and call for equality, justice and the end of racism.

State of Black Women

Black women medical professionals addressed the unique physical, mental and sexual health care needs unique to Black women.

Faith-based institutions

The Juneteenth Faith Leaders’ Breakfast introduced the new Defender Community Central Channel and other digital products.

HBCU Presidents Classic

Defender Network’s signature event celebrated HBCU pride and Black excellence with Texas Southern and Prairie View universities.

The Woman King

Nearly 400 guests walked the red carpet to view the much anticipated film screening starring Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis.

Early Voting Rally

The Defender Network and sponsors came together to host a rally and garner some urgency ahead of the upcoming early vote.