Award launched to ‘commemorate life and values’ of late SNP minister Christina McKelvie

A new award has been launched to “commemorate the life and values” of the late Scottish minister Christina McKelvie.

The Christina McKelvie Equality in Action Award will “celebrate outstanding contributions to advancing equality, activism, leadership and community cohesion that has challenged discrimination and improved the lives of individuals and communities across Scotland”, those organising it said.

The former equalities minister died last year after receiving treatment for secondary breast cancer.

The politician – who served as the MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse – was lauded at her funeral as “fearless” and a “relentless” fighter for kindness and equality.

Nominations are now open for the inaugural award, and members of the public are being encouraged to nominate someone they know “who is making a meaningful, positive difference”.

The winner of the inaugural award will be announced at the Christina McKelvie Celebration Ball, taking place on April 4.

The award has been set up by the Christina McKelvie Celebration Committee, a volunteer group of the late MSP’s family and friends “who are committed to continuing her legacy”.

Jack McKelvie, one of Ms McKelvie’s sons, said: “This award is a tribute to my mum’s fierce commitment to equality and the powerful legacy she leaves behind.

“So many people have shared stories of the support and encouragement she gave them, and I’m proud that this award will be able to do the same.

“At a time when the world can feel increasingly dangerous and scary for marginalised communities, it’s more important than ever to recognise and celebrate those who are making a positive difference.”

Kerry Craig, of the charity Maggie’s in Glasgow, said: “I can’t think of a more fitting way to remember Christina than through an award scheme for equality in action.

“It was an honour to support Christina though her experience of cancer and she always showed a huge amount of care and compassion towards others while she was in our centre.

“As a charity which relies almost entirely on voluntary donations to provide our expert support for people with cancer as well as family and friends, we are also incredibly grateful to be chosen as one of the beneficiaries of Christina’s memorial ball.”

Nominations can be made here.