The campaign group called Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) is recognizing Latin singer, Ricky Martin for his contribution in promoting awareness of America’s gay and lesbian community.

In a statement released Wednesday, the campaign group, according to Reuters, explained why Martin was one among their choices for this year’s award. The group is honoring Martin with GLAAD Vito Russo Award, the recognition given yearly to an individual, who came out as gay, lesbian, transgender or bisexual professional.

The group believes, added Reuters, that the award is given for individuals like Martin, who represents a gay personality with significant role in the promotion of equal rights of the LGBT community.

The Latin singer shocked the whole world when he came out in the open as gay, which he all described in a memoir released at the same period last year.

GLAAD is set to present Martin the Vito Russo Award in a formal ceremony next month.