Tara Reid, American actress, producer, model, and long-time ally, has been a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. She uses her formidable platform to speak out against injustices and disparities plaguing this marginalized community.
As the ultimate trendsetter and influencer of the 90s, Reid is all too familiar with the public scrutiny, backlash, and hatred that can come from the people. Now, for Gurus’ #30Voices30Days, Reid sits down with long-time friend, Publisher and Editor-In-Chief Derek Warburton, to discuss the gravity of staying silent.
What is your truth?
My truth is that I love people and want them to feel good. I am very sensitive to others’ emotions and can easily sense when someone is sad. I see myself as a healer, striving to help others and myself. I am deeply aware of people’s feelings and the impact of social media and bullying. My truth is to be a protector, to make people feel good, and to stand up for them. Many people are quick to judge and follow the crowd, labeling others without understanding. I value authenticity and appreciate when someone defends another because it is rare and important. My truth is to support and uplift others, promoting kindness and understanding.
What is your passion?
My passion is definitely acting. I act to escape the actual reality of my life. Reality can sometimes be tough and I am able to pour that energy into my craft. Equally, my friends are amazing and my dogs. I’m obsessed with my dogs. I can’t even handle how much I am in love with them. I love to cook, if you can imagine that, it also helps me escape. Lastly, I love to love. Being angry isn’t who I am so I chose to live in love and light.
What is your authenticity?
For me, it’s the moments of solitude, just me and my dogs. When I have alone time, I can think clearly, without anyone else’s influence. It’s a time when I can truly feel what I feel, without being pushed in different directions.
The best advice I can give to those dealing with the noise of life is this: it is hard, but you can deal with it. You have to get through the storm to get to the rainbow. Every day is a new day, and you have to keep believing in yourself to keep moving forward. Surround yourself with good people who support you. Don’t block your energy. Live your life authentically and live in love. Remember, you only have one life.
Why is it important to use your voice?
It is important for me to use my voice because I have so much to say in an area where people often judge harshly. If I can use my voice to help others, I can share my journey and show that change is possible. I had to pick myself up from the ground so many times, but I never stopped believing in myself. My story is ongoing, and I am still working on myself.
When I was around 8 years old, I had a gay uncle, Uncle John. He had a husband, but we weren’t allowed to talk about it. It was a different time back then. When Uncle John visited, he had to say that Michael was his best friend. As I grew older, I asked my mom why we couldn’t openly acknowledge Uncle John’s relationship. She struggled to accept it, even within herself. It took her many years to come to terms with it.
Despite the secrecy, Uncle John was a happy man, arguably the happiest in our family. There were so many men in the closet back then. Now, with more openness and the legalization of gay marriage, people are generally happier. I feel that gay married couples often seem happier than traditional marriages. We all are who we are, and speaking our truth is a beautiful thing.
Tara Reid at age 4 with Her Uncle John.
Tara Reid’s story is powerful and inspiring, highlighting the importance of using your voice to create positive change.
Her life reflects the true essence and emotion of the human experience. A narrative that not only sheds light on personal growth and acceptance but also on the broader societal changes that have led to greater happiness and authenticity for people who live in their truth.
