With unemployment skyrocketing and organized labor under attack, New York State AFL-CIO leaders brought together the state's newly appointed junior senator, Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand, with union leaders who are fighting layoffs and efforts to destroy health benefits and pensions.

The United Federation of Teachers, NYSUT's affiliate in New York City, hosted the recent meeting to discuss how to help working families.

Denis Hughes, president of the New York State AFL CIO, introduced Gillibrand and noted her support on labor's issues, especially on health care concerns.

Since being appointed three months ago to fill the Senate seat vacated by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Gillibrand has continued her efforts on behalf of working families, said AFT/UFT President Randi Weingarten.

The senator voted in favor of President Barack Obama's stimulus package and said she is working to make sure New York gets its fair share of federal dollars.

Gillibrand formerly represented the 20th Congressional District, a seat recently won by newcomer Scott Murphy.

She backed the Employee Free Choice Act and is now a co-sponsor of the Senate bill.