Sinead was Right.

The death of Sinead O’Connor hurts my heart. Only 56, her musical and social contributions are profound. Her art was communication and compassion.

Many associate Sinead O’Connor with her SNL appearance ages ago. Sinead was a product of and witness to atrocities committed against women and children in her Catholic Ireland. Looking directly at the camera, she unexpectedly tore a photograph of the then-Pope. Her act of protest was met with silence that night. Shortly thereafter, she stared down a largely booing audience at Radio Music Hall. Sinead was part of a tribute to Bob Dylan. She addressed the hostility with an anti-war, anti-racism a cappella. Kris Kristofferson then took the stage, embraced her and told her not to let the bastards get her down.

The bastards did their best to get her down. Sinead continued.

Sinead was and is right. Parts of the Catholic Church (and other institutions) have done their best to restrict women’s rights and abuse the vulnerable. Race and class divide society. Borders remain against refugees, the homeless and the mentally ill. As a young woman, Sinead articulated the wrongdoing. She continued her advocacy throughout her too-short life.

I will be processing this loss for some time. Sinead was strong and fragile; loud and quiet. What I do know, though, is that I hope I can be the kind of person who sees the bravery and courage in others— and tell them so. May I acknowledge the cost of this bravery and courage with a hug. May I strive to speak with truth and honesty. Like Sinead.

Bless you, Sinead.