Christina McKelvie

Early Life: Easterhouse Roots and Early Inspiration

Christina McKelvie was more than a public servant—she was a tireless advocate whose warmth, conviction, and lived experience shaped everything she touched. Rooted in the working class communities of Glasgow, she used her voice in the Scottish Parliament to champion equality, health, and dignity—leaving an indelible mark on Scottish life.

Born on March 4, 1968, in Glasgow and raised in the Easterhouse district, Christina grew up in a working class neighbourhood that shaped her lifelong values of justice and resilience.

Her early years taught her that community mattered, inequality wounded, and solidarity healed. These lessons nudged her toward a profession where care and common sense were a daily calling.

Education: From Local School to St Andrews

Christina attended St Leonard’s Secondary School, eventually enhancing her qualifications at Anniesland College, Cardonald College, and the University of St Andrews.

Her passion for social well being led her to Glasgow City Council’s social work services, where she served as a learning and development officer. There, and as a hardworking Unison trade unionist, she began channeling her personal experience into collective advocacy.

Political Journey: From MSP to Minister

Phase One: Gaining Ground (2007–2011)

In 2007, Christina entered politics as an SNP regional MSP for Central Scotland. By 2011, she was elected constituency MSP representing Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse—a reflection of her growing resonance with communities.

Phase Two: Convenor and the Power of Policy

As Convener of the European & External Relations Committee (2011–2014), and later of the Equalities & Human Rights Committee (2016–2018), she championed Clare’s Law—offering protection to those at risk from abusive partners—and steered vital human rights discussions.

Phase Three: Leading Change in Government

Appointed Minister for Equalities and Older People in 2018 under First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, she launched transformative policies: a pioneering strategy treating social isolation as a public health issue, stigma-busting menopause campaigns, and legislation banning female genital mutilation (FGM).

In March 2023, Humza Yousaf named her Minister for Culture, Europe and International Development, recognising her commitment to cultural equity and global connection.

Then, in February 2024, she became Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy, tackling urgent public health challenges.

Personal Life: Heart of the Community

Christina was a devoted partner to fellow MSP Keith Brown and a loving mother to her sons, Lewis and Jack. Twice a grandmother—to Maeve and Leo—she embodied joy and generosity, adored equally by family and colleagues.

Her experience with breast cancer, first diagnosed in February 2021 and again with secondary cancer in June 2024, deepened her advocacy—she promoted screening, founded Wear It Pink events, and openly shared her journey to inspire others.

Legacy: A Force of Nature for Social Justice

Christina left office on March 27, 2025, passing away at 57 after a valiant battle with cancer.

Tributes flowed from across Scotland: First Minister John Swinney described her as "one of the kindest and most generous people" and a "force of nature".

Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon remembered her "biggest heart" and deep empathy. Her tenure changed laws, shifted minds, and elevated compassion as a public priority.

Her legacy lies in the countless lives she touched—through protections for domestic abuse survivors, the fight against isolation and stigma, and her unwavering support for women’s health and rights. The flags at Holyrood flew at half-mast, committee meetings paused, and a nation mourned not only a politician—but a woman whose genuine care lifted communities and whose legacy urges Scotland to keep fighting for equality.

Christina McKelvie’s story is a reminder that politics, at its best, grows from lived experience. She stood as a bridge between the personal and the political—advancing policies rooted in empathy, equity, and the everyday reality of working-class life. Her legacy continues in the laws she shaped, the cultural conversations she sparked, and the compassion she embodied.