The Fundraising Magazine That Saves Lives Through Creative Expression
About The Publisher
Charlee D. Brazier is an Army Veteran, Fashion Designer, Journalist, and Artist whose career spans over two decades in the fields of art, fashion, and journalism. She founded the digital magazine Significant in 2016, inspired by her experiences navigating racial barriers and disparities faced by veterans and disabled domestic violence survivors.
Charlee’s professional journey began as a freelance writer and artist. She later became a columnist and reporter for The Perspective, the only Black magazine in the Southwest at the time, where she created the impactful column Woman 2 Woman. For 14 years, The Perspective amplified voices in Black communities across New Mexico and the nation, with Mrs. Brazier contributing stories that brought awareness to critical issues.
Beyond journalism, Charlee has a deep commitment to teaching and inspiring others through art. She conducted workshops for at-risk children and seniors, using art as a tool for healing and self-expression. These programs, supported by Governor Richardson and the African American Cultural Center, ran for nearly a decade in New Mexico. She also delivered motivational speeches at colleges for women in transition and showcased her Black art in solo exhibitions.
Charlee’s creative versatility extends to the world of film and theater. She wrote, produced, and directed dinner theater productions, and her talent in filmmaking earned her recognition during the PAH Festival in Grants, New Mexico, where she collaborated with filmmaker Christopher Coppola. Her short film, First Light, which depicted her experience as a minority female in the military, won second place in the festival, judged by notable figures like Academy Award-winner Francis Ford Coppola.
In addition to her work in the arts, Ms. Brazier pursued print modeling and acting, training for four years at Elleen Seals Modeling Agency in Seattle. She also shared her expertise by training aspiring models and organizing fashion shows for over 20 years. These shows, held in Washington State, New Mexico, Tennessee, and London—including at Chelsea Stadium—featured her custom-made clothing line and vintage brand, Designs by Charlee (D.B.C.). Her events aimed to boost the morale of combat soldiers and veterans, reflecting her ongoing dedication to empowering others through creativity.
Charlee Brazier’s diverse achievements and tireless advocacy have left an indelible mark on the communities she serves. Through her art, writing, and fashion, she continues to inspire others to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams.
Smoke, Fire, Fellowship: The Culture of the Black Cookout (July 2026)
By Gary Johnson – Contributor to Significant Magazine
There are certain sounds that signal summer. Children laughing in the distance. Music drifting from a “block party” down the street, or even the sound of someone yelling “cannonball” from a neighbor’s pool party.
And for many of us, the unmistakable sizzling sound and smell of meat hitting a hot grill.
For generations, the backyard grill has occupied a unique place in American culture. It is one of the few spaces where a man can stand for hours, stare at meat cooking, and somehow be considered productive. Nobody questions it. In fact, they respect it.
As summer approaches, somewhere, a man, usually your father or uncle will scream with absolute confidence, “don’t nobody else touch my grill.”
The Power of the Grill
Several years ago, I built a “summer kitchen.” I was a little hesitant. The thought of standing over a heated grill during the hottest days of summer was not appealing to me. However, as I talked with other brothers, I realized I was wrong. “Grilling out” is more than just cooking. I learned that grilling in my summer kitchen is a place where I can step away from emails, deadlines, podcasts, meetings, social media, and the endless noise of modern life.
Standing in front of a hot grill requires your attention. You cannot rush the process. The meat doesn’t care about your schedule. The fire doesn’t care about your opinions. You must be “present.”
I do all the cooking in my household. I take pride in preparing my meals. Believe me when I tell you, there is something deeply satisfying about preparing a meal from start to finish. Selecting the cut. Applying the seasoning. Watching the temperature. Timing the cook. Great meals are NEVER prepared quickly. The secret to a great meal is to take your time.
Why Men Love Grilling
Most men love grilling because we like to eat. The grill represents self-reliance and independence. Whether we admit it or not, many men derive satisfaction from creating something with their hands and sharing it with people they care about. YOU make critical decisions about the meal.
The Black Man and the Backyard Grill
Within Black communities, grilling has often been about much more than food. The grill has historically served as a gathering place. Think about family reunions, church picnics, neighborhood celebrations, fraternity gatherings, block parties, etc.
The grill area is like a barbershop. Banter and conversations happen around the grill. Stories are told around the grill, mentorship happens around the grill, and relationships are strengthened around the grill. Problems are solved sometimes leading to dreams that can become reality. The grill area is often an informal classroom and a great place to gather.
