Dozens of heartfelt tributes have been paid to leading women’s equality campaigner Emma Ritch after her tragic sudden death.
The executive director for Engender passed away on Friday, July 9, leaving her friends and colleagues in shock.
Politicians from around Scotland have sent heartfelt messages of condolence to her loved ones while marking her impressive career fighting for women’s rights.
Announcing her tragic death, a statement from advocacy group Engender said: “It is with profound sadness that we share the news that our Executive Director, Emma Ritch, passed away suddenly on Friday 9th July.
“Over a career dedicated to realising women’s equality and rights, Emma has been hugely influential in the movement in Scotland, through both her paid work and in a number of voluntary roles.
“Her intelligence and insight, kindness, and passionate feminism have made Scotland a better place for women, as well as enriching the lives of those who knew her personally.
"Emma’s death is a huge shock to us all.
“We know that many Engender members and supporters will be keen to share their tributes to her life and work, and we are working on ways to facilitate this.
“For now, please know that we are sending all of our love to Emma’s family and friends, and anybody struggling with this news.
“The Engender office will be closed this week as we collectively process the loss of our brilliant director, colleague, and friend.”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon shared her heartfelt condolences to Emma’s family and said she will be ‘missed beyond words’.
The Scottish Government leader tweeted: “This is dreadful and devastating news. Emma was such a force for good - a passionate advocate for women’s rights and a champion of justice and equality.
“She was also a cherished friend to many. She will be missed beyond words. Sending love to her family, friends and colleagues.”
Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie added: “Emma Ritch was an extraordinary, warm, generous, and thoroughly wonderful person who advanced the cause of equality immeasurably.
“The condolences of the Scottish Labour Party go to her family and friends. This is truly heartbreaking news. She will be missed.”
A statement from Rape Crisis Scotland added: “We are shocked and deeply saddened at the news that Emma Ritch, Chair of our Board of Trustees has died.
“Emma was a committed, passionate and witty feminist and advocate for women and girls in Scotland, Europe and beyond.
“She devoted her life to working for true equality for women and girls and we are incredibly proud and grateful that she chose to spend so much of her time with us at Rape Crisis Scotland.
“Emma joined our Board in 2011 and this time she has made an extraordinary impact on the work of our organisation, and in the feminist movement in Scotland as a whole.
“Emma led with conviction and determination and a resolute belief that social, political and economic equality for women is something that can be achieved; we will continue this work in her memory.
“She was a friend and a colleague, and we will miss her.
“Our thoughts are with Emma’s partner and loved ones, colleagues at Engender and all who knew her at this difficult time.”
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