Defender Network

The Defender Network is Houston's Leading Black Information source providing the most cost-effective means for reaching African-American consumers. Founded in 1930, the Defender has been at the forefront of advocating, educating, entertaining and informing Blacks in the Greater Houston area. Led by CEO Sonceria "Sonny) Messiah Jiles, the Defender Network operates on multiple platforms: web, social media, print, events, e-marketing, and more reaching 200,000+ African Americans. As one of the most effective mediums for reaching Black consumers in the three counties (Harris, Ft. Bend and Brazoria), the Defender delivers results for our stakeholders. The Defender Team is the foundation of the effectiveness of our company: Clyde Jiles, Associate Publisher Emelda Douglas, Chief Development Officer ReShonda Tate, Managing Editor Aswad Walker, Associate Editor Laura Onyeneho, Education Reporter Terrance Harris, Pro/College Editor Jodie B. Jiles, High School Editor Jimmie Aggison, Photographer The Defender audited circulation is done annually by Alliance for Audited Media. The business has membership in the Local Media Association, National Newspaper Publishers Association and National Association of Black Journalists.