The Center for Labor Education and Research (CLEAR) at the University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu is celebrating a major milestone this year: its 50th anniversary. Established in 1976 by state law, CLEAR has spent the last five decades serving as Hawai‘i’s CLEARinghouse for labor education—empowering workers, unions and the general public through advocacy, training and maintaining the state’s award-winning labor history archive.
To commemorate this 50th anniversary and honor International Workers’ Day on May 1, CLEAR has partnered with the University of Hawai‘i Professional Assembly (UHPA), International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 142, International Brotherhood of Electrical Works (IBEW) Local 1186, and the Hawaii Employees Lifeline Program to host a special historical performance.
The one-person play, “From Wharf Rats to Lords of the Dock,” was written and will be performed by actor Ian Ruskin. The performance chronicles the life and times of Australian immigrant Harry Bridges, exploring his pivotal role in empowering workers through the ILWU.
“For 50 years, CLEAR has proudly served as Hawaiʻi’s CLEARinghouse for labor education,” said Dion Dizon, director of CLEAR. “When we teach labor law and history, we connect then and now to remind workers today that the rights and privileges we enjoy as a matter of law were hard fought and won—not freely given. Education with action is what empowers our unions, our teachers and the working people of our state.”
The community is invited to participate in the May 1 celebration through two events:
- Meet the Artist Gathering: noon–1 p.m. at the UH West O‘ahu Library
- Live Performance: 5 p.m. at IBEW 1186, 1935 Hau Street, Room 306
Seating for the events is limited. Those interested in attending are encouraged to reserve their seats.
Article originally posted to UH News on April 24, 2026.