Una Marson (1905-1965) was a Jamaican writer, poet, journalist, feminist, and broadcaster who broke barriers as a trailblazing figure in the literary and cultural history of the Caribbean and the broader African diaspora. Marson was a pioneering advocate for gender and racial equality whose work extended across literary genres, media, and international platforms, leaving a legacy that continues to resonate today.

Born on February 6, 1905, in rural Jamaica, Marson was the youngest of six children in a middle-class family. Her father was a Baptist minister, and her upbringing in a religious and educationally supportive environment exposed her to books and nurtured her love of learning and writing. After finishing her formal education, Marson moved to Kingston, Jamaica's capital, where she began her career as a secretary. However, her passion for writing soon led her into journalism. In 1928, she became the first Jamaican woman to edit and publish her own magazine, The Cosmopolitan, which focused on women's issues, social justice, and literary work. The magazine featured articles about women's rights, racial pride, and self-improvement, reflecting Marson's commitment to empowering women and promoting cultural consciousness.

Marson's early poetry also reflected her feminist and anti-colonial beliefs. Collections such as Tropic Reveries (1930) and Heights and Depths (1931) explored themes of love, identity, and colonial oppression while blending European literary traditions with Jamaican vernacular and imagery. She often addressed the challenges faced by women, especially Black women, highlighting their struggles and resilience. Her work positioned her as one of the first Caribbean poets to address such issues, marking her as a voice for the voiceless in a male-dominated literary sphere.

In 1932, Marson moved to London, England, seeking greater opportunities and exposure. This move exposed her to the complexities of racial discrimination in Britain, as well as new literary and political networks. She became involved with the League of Coloured Peoples, an organization dedicated to racial equality, where she worked closely with anti-colonial activists, including Harold Moody. Marson’s time in London deepened her commitment to racial and social justice, and she used her talents to challenge the pervasive racism and sexism of the time.

During this period, Marson continued to write and produce plays. Her play At What a Price (1933) was the first play by a Jamaican author to be staged in London. It told the story of a Jamaican woman navigating life and love in England, grappling with issues of identity, assimilation, and racism. The play was well-received and marked another significant milestone in Marson’s pioneering career. Her work as a playwright often centered on the challenges of Black women, making her one of the first to bring Caribbean women's voices to the stage.

Marson's influence extended far beyond literature. In 1941, she became the first Black woman to be employed by the BBC. She worked as a producer for the groundbreaking program Caribbean Voices, which provided a platform for Caribbean writers to share their work and discuss their experiences. The program was instrumental in nurturing and promoting Caribbean literature, giving rise to voices such as Derek Walcott, Louise Bennett, and other influential writers. Marson’s role in shaping Caribbean Voices demonstrated her commitment to creating spaces for Caribbean cultural expression and intellectual exchange.

Marson’s advocacy for gender equality was as strong as her fight against racial injustice. She spoke out about issues like unequal pay for women, lack of representation, and the need for women's political participation. Her activism and literary work were deeply intertwined, as she sought to raise awareness and effect change through her art and public engagement.

Despite her many achievements, Marson faced significant challenges. The racism and sexism she encountered took a toll on her mental health, and she struggled with periods of illness throughout her life. Nonetheless, she remained committed to her work, returning to Jamaica in the late 1940s, where she continued writing and advocating for social issues until her death in 1965.

Una Marson's legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and advocacy. She laid the foundation for future generations of Caribbean and Black women writers and activists, breaking through systemic barriers and amplifying marginalized voices. Her poetry, plays, and broadcasts remain influential, highlighting her dedication to justice, equality, and cultural pride. Marson’s life and work continue to inspire those committed to the ongoing struggle for gender and racial equity worldwide.