‘Not for the faint of heart’

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Selena Gomez knows it’s not always easy to speak your mind on hot-button political issues − but she’s going to keep doing it anyway.

The pop star, who has been outspoken on an array of issues including mental health and immigration, said speaking your mind is “not for the faint of heart,” in an interview with Billboard published Thursday.

“At the end of the day, I believe it matters to be vocal about issues that matter to you, whether you are famous or not,” she said. “It’s not for the faint of heart, because you are putting yourself out there and trust me, there will be a lot of opinions that come at you for even having the nerve to say anything at all.”

The actress and Rare Beauty founder drew sharp reactions in January when she posted a video to social media in which, between tears, she expressed sadness and concern over mass deportation efforts authorized by President Donald Trump.

“The children — I don’t understand,” Gomez said, per screen recordings shared on social media, including by @PopBase. “I’m so sorry, I wish I could do something for the kids. I don’t know what to do. I’ll try everything, I promise.” In text over the clip, she wrote “I’m sorry” and included the Mexican flag emoji. Gomez is third-generation Mexican American.

Supporters of President Trump, including some in his administration, were quick to criticize Gomez, characterizing her emotional reaction as undue.

The “Only Murders in the Building” star has also been open about her struggles with mental health over the years and the importance of seeking help and spreading awareness.

“I remember when I decided to be open about my own personal mental health, it was scary to be that vulnerable, and I didn’t ever want anyone to think I am a victim,” she told Billboard. “I thought (that) by sharing my own story I could help others, and I will take any negative opinions that come with that because I see the bigger picture of how the conversations have changed around mental health.”

“The noise can be overwhelming, and I am not saying it’s easy,” she continued, “but by doing that and not compromising who you are, it goes a long way.”

Contributing: KiMi Robinson

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