HRC honored actor Colton Haynes with its Visibility Award Saturday night at a ceremony in Seattle.

The honor is given to celebrities "who use their elevated positions and reach to benefit the LGBT community," and he's certainly done that.

Haynes, of course, came out as gay in an EW interview earlier this year, and has spoken candidly about his battle with anxiety and depression, and the journey he has gone on with his family.

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

“By simply being open about who he is, he is helping to break down barriers and tear down closet doors."

The actor called the award "a humbling experience." Holding back tears, he talked about coming from Kansas, his love of clouds (which almost lead to a career in meteorology) and being gay, which he said "came as naturally as the color of my eyes."

"I'm asked to play so many roles as an actor," he confessed. "Tonight I can be myself and it feels incredible."

Haynes said he felt "extremely lucky" to be at the ceremony with HRC president Chad Griffin, who he's known for 10 years, "and surrounded by hundreds of new friends and allies."

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

Later on Instagram, he confessed he "couldn't hold back the emotion."

"This is for all of my incredible fans—I hope I can inspire y’all to be yourselves even though I hid for so long."

Given that's he's only 28, it's not so long.

Below, more images from the 17th annual HRC Seattle Gala and Auction: “Equality Forward: Equality for All”

Before the ceremony, Haynes admitted to some nervousness on Twitter.

Here he is with Chad Griffin and Sarah McBride, the trans activist who spoke at the Democratic National Convention.