London, Indonesianpost.com – In the wake of renowned singer Sinead O’Connor’s passing, people from diverse backgrounds came together to mourn the loss of an influential artist. However, what has caught the attention of many is the notable omission of her Muslim identity in various obituaries.
Sinead O’Connor, a prominent figure in the music industry, embraced Islam in 2018, announcing her pride in becoming a Muslim. “It’s a natural conclusion of my theological journey. All my studies of religious texts eventually led me to Islam,” she passionately shared in a heartfelt tweet on October 19, 2018.
Her journey into Islam was accompanied by a significant transformation. Embracing the hijab, she proudly posted a selfie, reciting the call to prayer (azan) in a video. Adopting the Muslim name Shuhada’ Davitt, later changed to Shuhada Sadaqat, she embodied her newfound faith, while professionally continuing to be known as Sinead O’Connor.
Apart from her musical talent, O’Connor was also known for her advocacy for the Palestinian cause. In 2014, she took a principled stand and declined an opportunity to perform in Israel, expressing solidarity with the suffering of the Palestinian people. Her commitment to humanitarian values resonated deeply with her Muslim identity.
Following her demise on July 26, 2023, Muslim admirers of O’Connor found solace in her inspiring path toward Islam. Her faith journey became a source of inspiration for many, highlighting the profound impact faith can have on one’s life.
Yet, amid the widespread admiration for her choice to embrace Islam, several media outlets seemingly overlooked her Muslim identity in their obituaries. Social media users were quick to point out the absence of hijab-clad photos, suggesting a potential lack of diverse representation in the reporting ranks.
Unzela Khan Sheikh, a devoted fan of O’Connor with the username X (@unzela), voiced her bewilderment, questioning why British media outlets did not use photos of Sinead O’Connor donning a hijab, considering her public declaration of practicing Islam.
Despite the oversight by some media, the legacy of Sinead O’Connor as a Muslim convert continues to be cherished and celebrated by those who acknowledge the profound impact of her faith journey. Her unwavering commitment to her beliefs and humanitarian values serves as a testament to the power of individual conviction.
The world will forever remember Sinead O’Connor not only as a musical icon but also as an inspiring figure whose faith journey remains an enduring source of hope and encouragement for many.