Defender Network
@defendernetwork
Houston's Leading Black Information Source.
This article unpacks how corporate power shapes mainstream media—from giant conglomerates to shrinking local news—and why it’s time to question the story we're being told. defendernetwork.com/news/opinion/m…
Deion Sanders wants a salary cap in college sports, warning that new athlete pay rules could widen the gap between top programs and everyone else. defendernetwork.com/news/opinion/d…
Howard Jefferson went from award-winning teacher to NAACP Houston president—shaping Houston’s fight for justice. His legacy still inspires. defendernetwork.com/people/dn-news…
Rising star Tristin “TK” Gaines wins Golden Glove and earns spot at Hank Aaron Invitational—making national waves in both baseball and football. @TKGaines0 defendernetwork.com/sports/high-sc…
Chronic absenteeism in K–12 has doubled post-COVID, hitting Black students hardest. It’s more than a pandemic effect—it's a mindset shift, says education leader Yasmina White. defendernetwork.com/news/education…
240K+ pages of FBI files on Dr. King have been released. His family urges empathy and respect as they continue to grieve and reflect on his legacy. defendernetwork.com/news/fbi-surve…
Remembering Willie Belle Boone, a trailblazing activist and founder of the Southeast Precinct Judges Council. A pillar of Southeast Houston, she leaves behind a powerful legacy at 93. defendernetwork.com/people/obituar…
Black family reunions are fading—but what happens to our legacy if they disappear? These gatherings are more than tradition—they’re how we preserve culture, memory, and connection. defendernetwork.com/culture/black-…
CCNetwork opens Suites on Lawndale, a 6-suite hub for local entrepreneurs. Founded by Jazmin Jones, it continues her grandfather’s legacy of community support. defendernetwork.com/under-40/commu…
Malcolm-Jamal Warner, known as Theo on The Cosby Show, has died at 54. His legacy spans acting, music, poetry, and advocacy for mental health and education. defendernetwork.com/people/obituar…
Marilyn Burgess is streamlining Harris County courts with tech and diversity—from e-records to online jury sign-ups, access to justice is improving. @vote4burgess defendernetwork.com/news/local-sta…
Hurricane Harvey showed cracks in Texas' emergency response. With FEMA cuts and aging systems, officials urge communities to prep and stress self-sufficiency this hurricane season. defendernetwork.com/news/houston-p…
SCOTUS clears Trump to proceed with mass Dept. of Education layoffs, overturning lower court. The move could significantly impact students nationwide. defendernetwork.com/news/conversat…
Remembering Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who has died at 54. Known as Theo on The Cosby Show, he was also a fierce advocate for mental health, education, and Black representation. defendernetwork.com/people/obituar…

Entrepreneur Joy Woodson kept her businesses running through major health and financial challenges. She credits financial literacy and strong relationships for her resilience. defendernetwork.com/community/joy-…
Explore hidden gems in Houston’s Black community—from Fresh Houwse’s organic produce to CLASS Bookstore’s events and La Maison B&B’s cozy stay. Unique, local, and full of heart. defendernetwork.com/community/unde…

Houston will host the 2025 AAU Junior Olympic Games, welcoming 16,000+ youth athletes. It’s the city’s 4th time hosting the nation’s largest youth multi-sport event. defendernetwork.com/sports/high-sc…
Houston’s Sade Perkins faces backlash and removal from city post after viral comments on Camp Mystic tragedy. defendernetwork.com/community/sade…
Former Summer Creek CF William Hill is headed to UT after early setbacks. From doubts to leading in batting average, his journey shows true grit and determination. @W1llhill06 defendernetwork.com/sports/high-sc…
Gov. Abbott’s special session threatens Black districts like CD-18. Join Rep. Jolanda Jones to push back and defend fair maps. @repjolandajones
