Ricky Martin honoured as gay role model

The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) honoured the 'Livin Da Vida Loca' singer for creating awareness about gay rights in Latin America.

"I just want to be free. I can say, today I am free," said Martin while accepting his award, reported New York Post online.

The Puerto Rican singer, 39 was honoured at a New York gala which recognize the best portrayals of gay community members in film, television, radio, music, newspapers and blogs.

Martin, who has sold more than 60 million albums worldwide, revealed he was gay in 2010 after more than a decade in the international spotlight.

His coming-out included a TV interview with Oprah Winfrey and since then, he has been heralded as a gay role model, especially for Latin Americans.

Martin thanked his parents and boyfriend before urging the audience to, "let's go Latin America and let's share the love."

Martin, who became the father of twin boys with a surrogate mother in 2008, was given the Vito Russo Award, named for the late gay activist and film historian.