Sarpong and Obidike to reveal story of 'extraordinary' Black broadcaster Marson

HQ will publish Calling Una Marson: The Extraordinary Life of a Forgotten Icon by June Sarpong and Jennifer Obidike.

Lisa Milton, executive publisher at HQ, acquired world all language rights directly from Sarpong. The broadcaster and author will be collaborating with Obidike, a writer and educator. Calling Una Marson will be published on 6th June 2024 in hardback, e-book and audiobook.

HQ said: “This biography will shine a light on the extraordinary legacy of Una Marson – one that has been all but forgotten. A journalist, poet, playwright, broadcaster and activist, Marson had a pioneering impact on the lives of Black women, as well as playing a pivotal role in bringing Caribbean culture to audiences in the UK. She made history in 1938 as the first Black woman to be employed by the BBC, before becoming the corporation’s first Black female broadcaster in 1941.

"Throughout her life, Marson was a fierce political activist and paved the way for the Windrush generation. Marson fought against racism and discrimination based on her gender, class and marital status, but despite her illustrious career and notable achievements, her story has been largely forgotten.”

Sarpong said: “There are many trailblazing women that have been written out of history, women who have changed society along with their industries for the better and sadly not been awarded the credit they deserve. Once such woman is Una Marson, the first Black woman to have her own show on the BBC. Back in the late 1930s, she forged a path where there was none and connected with British audiences in a way that many thought impossible. Without Una, there would be no Floella [Benjamin], no Moira [Stuart] or even me – hers is a name we should all know.”

Milton said: “It’s a privilege to be working with June and Jennifer to bring Una Marson’s extraordinary story to life. This rigorously researched and deeply personal book will help bring to life an extraordinary, complex and multifaceted woman who blazed a trail for so many, and whose work and legacy deserves to be told.’