Houston community leader Yvette “Ms. Chag” Chargois passed away at 81 after a dedicated career.
Sonny Messiah-Jiles
I'm originally from McNair, Texas as though you knew where that is. I purchased the Houston Defender at age 27 in 1981 using creative financing by assuming the previous owner's debt. The journey has been a rollercoaster ride with extreme highs and lows, unexpected curves, and exhilarating adventures as we confront injustices, applaud successes and raise Black voices. Being Black is a priority, yet showing our interconnectedness is a goal. During this journey, I’ve been blessed with a wonderful husband and two fantastic sons. Being the first African American woman to serve on the Greater Houston Partnership and the first African American to lead the University of Houston, alumni opened doors but the work continues. I continue to build my life on a foundation of service to my community, my industry, or my family.
