Charles McKain was honored Tuesday by the San Diego City Council for his achievements during the last 30 years, including being among the first openly gay delegates from San Diego to the Democratic National Convention in 1980, and helping to design the 3rd Council District configuration in 1990.

About 25 of McKain’s friends and his sister joined him as he was being honored by Councilmembers Toni Atkins and Donna Frye. McKain married his longtime partner, Bob McWilliams, on June 17, which Atkins noted.

“I’m here to acknowledge and recognize the leadership and commitment that Charles McKain provided over the past 30 years,” Atkins said. “Over the decades, Charlie has been a loyal volunteer and fund-raising organizer for many causes … facing the San Diego LGBT community.”

McKain retired several years ago after working as an attorney for the 4th District Court of Appeal. He is a member of the San Diego Democratic Club and has previously served as vice president, treasurer and political action director, after joining the club in 1976.

McKain also served as a delegate at the 1992, 1996 and 2000 Democratic conventions. He was a member of the San Diego County Human Relations Commission from 1989 to 1993, and received the Henry Auerbach Award as the San Diego County Democrat of the Year in 1994.

The City Council voted 7-0 to declare July 8 “Charles McKain Day.” Council President Scott Peters was absent.