Colton Haynes accepts HRC award: 'Tonight I can be myself'

SEATTLE, Aug. 30 (UPI) -- Colton Haynes was honored over the weekend for his contributions to the LGBT community.

The 28-year-old actor received the Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award at the organization's annual Seattle gala. The honor is given to celebrities who "use their elevated positions and reach" to support LGBT rights.

"Colton Haynes has inspired countless LGBTQ young people across the country and around the world to live their lives as their authentic selves," HRC president Chad Griffin said in a statement.

Haynes, who came out as gay in May after months of speculation, teared up as he gave an emotional acceptance speech. He called the honor a "a humbling experience," saying he felt "extremely lucky" to be at the ceremony.

"I'm asked to play so many roles as an actor," the star told the audience. "Tonight I can actually be myself for the first time, and it feels incredible."

"I don't necessarily feel especially deserving of this recognition," he admitted. "We all know there are many other people who have come before me and blazed the trail as LGBT role models. I'm walking in their shoes and I'm following their lead."

Haynes had told Entertainment Weekly in his coming out interview that for years he "just wasn't ready" to be open about his sexuality. He recently said in the September issue of Out magazine that he's now seeking happiness.