Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt star Tituss Burgess will receive NewFest’s inaugural Voice & Visibility Award October 20. The honor will be presented by Debra Messing at the opening night of the 28th Annual New York LGBT Film Festival.

“It’s an honor to be the first recipient of this award. What a lovely reminder to us all that being yourself gives others permission to stand proudly in their own individuality,” Burgess said in a statement.

NewFest’s mission is “to give voice and visibility to the full scope of the LGBT community by presenting films and supporting filmmakers, writers and actors whose stories entertain, educate and empower.”

“NewFest is all about LGBT storytelling, and as an immensely talented actor of both stage and screen, Tituss presents his characters and his own stories with insight, strength, and heart--echoing the power and passion of the LGBT community,” said Robert Kushner, NewFest's executive director in a statement.

Burgess is also known for his Broadway appearances in The Little Mermaid and Guys and Dolls.

Visit NewFest.org.