When U.S. Air Force serviceman Aaron Bushnell lit himself on fire in front of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., in February, far too many applauded the 25-year-old’s very public, viral, suicide protest.

Cornel West called him a “dear brother” and praised his example, saying, “Let us never forget the extraordinary courage and commitment of brother Aaron Bushnell who died for truth and justice.”