This week, the world said farewell to one of the most outspoken, brave, talented and impactful people in modern day history. Sinead O’Connor questioned the status quo, stood up for the voiceless and spoke truth to power throughout her life. One thing I wish I’d known before the world lost this legend; her unwavering support for Britney Spears. It is such a perfect example of her compassion. As we mourn Sinead, I wanted to share some of the things I learned this week about her connection to Britney. We all know of her more infamous moments of fighting the system, from speaking on the abuses in the catholic church to boycotting the Grammy’s. Sinead made a career, not just as a musician, but consistently used her bold voice to fight the Patriarchy and injustice as she truly made this world a better place. Knowing that she was a part of the Britney Army, it has left me very reflective on which celebrities we lift up, and which ones society seems to tear down.
In an open letter [To Miley Cyrus], Sinead expressed her heartfelt solidarity and empathy for Britney, “How do you feel when your friend Britney Spears is mocked and humiliated for having had mental health problems? I know I personally want to bash those who treat her that way.” In more than one instance, Sinead fiercely criticized the exploitative nature of the conservatorship, highlighting its infringement on Spears’ basic human rights and personal autonomy. Sinead’s struggles with mental health issues, the pressures of fame, and clashes with the music industry allowed her to intimately understand the challenges that Brit has dealt with throughout her career. Sinead also stood up for Britney back in 2007, during an interview with Oprah, Sinead said she has sympathy for Britney Spears. “She had two babies within the space of two years, (there) doesn’t seem like a terrible amount of support from the people around her,” O’Connor said. Sinead said it seems the media is constantly watching for Spears to make a mistake raising her children, but that no parents are perfect. “I think to attack someone as a mother is very dangerous,” she said. “I would say that’s what puts a young girl on a precipice which is very, very dangerous, in my opinion. Some people may end up really regretting the way they’re treating her.” The way Sinead stood up for Britney is a perfect example of the power in artists uniting in support of one another. Sinead seemed to, without a second thought, bring attention to injustices in a way few else could. Her genuine empathy, drawn from her pain, allowed her to be an advocate for so many people and causes. Sinead O’Connor’s name will undoubtedly be remembered among those who stood up for what is right, and in the case of Britney – She helped shape the conversation around mental health, autonomy, and the true meaning of solidarity in the entertainment industry.
BRITNEY ARMY 