News from New York State Department of Labor

For more information contact: Leo Rosales, 518-457-5519.

MEDIA ADVISORY

Labor Department Celebrates Legacy of Kate Mullany TODAY

ALBANY, NY (05/23/2008; 0838)(readMedia)-- When: Friday, May 23, 2008 – 10 a.m.

Who: NYS Labor Commissioner M. Patricia Smith; Congressman Michael McNulty; Rensselaer County Executive Kathy Jimino; City of Troy Mayor Harry Tutunjian; Assemblymember Tim Gordon; Paul Cole, Executive Director of the American Labor Studies Center.

Where: The Kate Mullany National Historic Site - 350 8th Street, Troy, NY

At an event at the Kate Mullany National Historic Site, located at 350 8th Street in Troy, NY, State Labor Commissioner M. Patricia Smith will be joined by members of the labor community and various elected officials to commemorate Labor History Month in New York State.

Labor History Month recognizes the sacrifices and accomplishments of generations of workers in New York State. During the early years of labor history, countless numbers of individuals endured long, grueling work hours, dangerous and unsanitary conditions, and poor pay. As immigrants sought the American dream, many found themselves toiling in sweatshops that exploited their labors.

The Kate Mullany National Historic Site, located at 350 8th Street in Troy, is the only site affiliated with the National Park Service that pays tribute to our nation’s labor movement. The site celebrates the life and legacy of Kate Mullany, who in 1864 organized and led the all-female Collar Laundry Union in Troy. The house was dedicated by then First Lady Hillary Clinton on July 15, 1998 as a National Historic Landmark.

Note: A tour of the facility will be available immediately following the press event.

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