PRESIDENT'S WELCOME
I would like to extend to you my warmest welcome as we begin what is to be a wonderful Michaelmas Term. I cannot wait for you to join us at one of our events at the Chamber on Palace Green or for an infamous cocktail at 24 North Bailey, our uniquely charming bar.
The Durham Union Society is Durham’s oldest and largest student society. It is a place to listen and engage with people from all walks of life, guest speakers and fellow students alike Our guiding principle of free speech lays the foundation for rigorous debate and discussion, providing a steady platform to face the stormy tide of public opinion
Drawn to the Union as a fresher three years ago, I had no idea the impact it would end up having on my time here. I attended my first Union address the week after freshers, the contents of which are now a blur.
But what hasn’t left me is the way I felt leaving. I was immediately inspired by the world I had just entered; with the suited Officers on the front bench and the President in his robe, I left carrying the lingering bitter taste of free post-address wine and a committee position
As someone who is not naturally comfortable with public speaking, the Union was not a likely home - but it turned out to be one of those formative experiences that end up defining a new part of your life
It dragged me out of my comfort zone, which - I have realised - is exactly what it’s all about
Our fierce Friday night debates put the Union ahead of its time intellectually whilst encompassing a historic spirit of harmony that is often lost in the modern, adversarial world. Members and invited speakers battle it out at the despatch box before coming together for drinks at 24s, in an understated display of togetherness and joviality.
The Union is far more than just a debating society. Through its regular socials and campusrenowned balls, it affords an environment to make friendships that will stay with you for life. We have more elected positions than any other society in Durham so whether you want to help invite speakers, organise socials or run events, there’s something for everyone to get involved with
I am continually astounded by the people I meet here, their dedication, their commitment, their intelligence, and intellectual curiosity. The community we have is unlike any other I have been a part of To fully experience Durham, Union membership is essential
Amy Mitchell, President
PROPOSITION
Susie Hargreaves OBE is the CEO of the Internet Watch Foundation, and has worked extensively in online child protection, for which she received an OBE in 2016.
To Be Announced
David Campbell-Bannerman is a former Conservative MEP and the current Chairman of The Freedom Association.
To Be Announced
If you would like to be a student speaker in this debate, please contact president@dus.org.uk
THIS HOUSE WOULD the Durham Union society presents
Ban the use of lethal autonomous weapons Friday 21st October 8:30 pm, The Debating Chamber, Palace Green Members Only Join Now
SPEAKERS
PROPOSITION
For the proposition, Dan Taub, Lewis Elliott and Rosie Garfield-Bannerman will be represnting the York Army Debating Squadnot the British Army! They are all serving soldiers in the 4th Infantry Brigade. They will also be hosting their debating competition at the Debating Chamber on Thursday 24th November, which members are welcome to come along to watch.
OPPOSITION
Prof. Peter Lee is a Professor of Applied Ethics, as well as Director of Security, Risk Research, and Innovation at the University of Portsmouth. His research focuses on the ethics of lethal autonomous weapons systems.
Dr. Rod Thornton is a lecturer at the UK Defence Academy at King's College London, as well as the editor of Defence-in-Depth. Thornton previously served for the British Army in Germany, Northern Ireland and Bosnia.
Friday 28th October 8:30 pm, The Debating Chamber, Palace Green Members Only Join Now the Durham Union society presents Allow medical professionals to opt out of performing procedures on religious grounds THIS HOUSE WOULD
THIS HOUSE BELIEVES the Durham Union society presents The Commonwealth has had its day
Featuring: Dr. Zareer
Friday 4th November 8:30 pm
Debating Chamber
Members Only
Masani
Joseph Robertson
SPEAKERS
PROPOSITION
Rod Liddle is a journalist, having written for The Spectator and The Times. He made headlines last year for his appearance at a South College formal. He attended the London School of Economics.
Tom Harwood is a journalist and broadcaster, who currently hosts The Briefing: AM with Tom Harwood on GB News. He studied at St Mary's College and was Union President for Epiphany Term 2017.
Sebastian Payne is a journalist and author, who is currently the Whitehall Editor of the Financial Times. He studied at Van Mildert College and was manager of Purple Radio while at Durham.
OPPOSITION
Richard Holden is the Member of Parliament for North West Durham, first elected in 2019; the first Conservative MP elected in the history of the seat. He studied at the London School of Economics.
In addition to two student speakers. If you wish to participate in this debate, please email president@dus.org.uk.
THIS HOUSE WOULD
Adopt a Rehabilitative Justice System the Durham Union society presents
Featuring Sir Robert Buckland KBE KC MP
Friday 18th November 8:30 pm, The Debating Chamber Only
the Durham Union society presents
The Rise of OnlyFans THIS HOUSE REGRETS
Featuring
Julie Bindel
THIS HOUSE BELIEVES the Durham Union society presents Foreign Aid does more harm than good
Join Now Friday 2nd December 8:30 pm, The Debating Chamber, Palace Green Members Only
SPEAKERS
PROPOSITION
Paul Kenyon is a BAFTA-winning investigative journalist and the author of Dictatorland: The Men Who Stole Africa.
To Be Announced
Manoah Esipisu is the Kenyan High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, having previously worked in the Commonwealth Secretariat.
Harriett Baldwin is the Member of Parliament for West Worcestershire, and previously served as a joint Minister of State for both Africa and International Development.
OPPOSITION
If you would like to be a student speaker in this debate, please contact president@dus.org.uk
Allow trans athletes unrestricted access to compete in the gender category they identify with THIS HOUSE WOULD Friday 7th October 8:30 pm, The Debating Chamber, Palace Green *Open to All* First Debate Join Now
PANELS
Below are our two upcoming panel sessions for Michaelmas Term 2022.
WOMEN'S PANEL
17th October
Are all-female events useful in advancing gender equality?
To be preceded by a women-only dinner - further details and sign up to be released on our Facebook page.
UKRAINE PANEL
17th November
SPEAKERS
Below are some of our upcoming speakers for Michaelmas Term 2022.
Yaron Brook is an Israeli Activist and the Chairman of the Ayn Rand Institute. He is also the ost of The Yaron Brook Show and is a frequent ontributor to The Federalist Society.
3th October - *Open to All*
Jeremy Vine is a broadcaster, best known for The Jeremy Vine Show on BBC Radio 2. He studied History at Hatfield College, and was a member of the Union during his student days.
15th October
Prof. John Finnis is a legal scholar and Emeritus Professor at both Oxford and Notre Dame Universities specialising in natural law theory.
19th October - In Partnership with the Durham University Philosophy Society
SPEAKERS
Below are some of our upcoming speakers for Michaelmas Term 2022.
G. Marcus Cole is a prominent lawyer and the incumbent Dean of Notre Dame Law School. He is also the founder of the Religious Liberty Institute.
24th October
Dr Krish Kandiah is an entrepreneur and author, as well as the director of the Sanctuary Foundation.
2nd November - Vulnerable Children in the UK
Shabnam Nasimi is an Afghan activist and political commentator, having appeared in The Times and on Newsnight in the past. She currently runs the Conservative Friends of Afghanistan.
7th November
SPEAKERS
Below are some of our upcoming speakers for Michaelmas Term 2022.
Dr. Philip Goff is a philosopher and Associate Professor at Durham University. He is known for his advocacy of the idea of 'Panpsychism'.
9th November - The philosophy of religion and being a 'practicing agnostic'
Lord Sumption is an academic and former Justice of the UK Supreme Court. He has been sharply critical of the UK's Government's COVID strategy.
14th November - The Impact of Roe v. Wade on the American Legal and Political System
Dr. Rebecca Smethurst is an astrophysicist and author. She runs the 'Dr Becky' Youtube channel with over 490k subscribers, and has recieved awards for her work from the Royal Astronomical Society. She is an alumna of St. Aidan's College.
28th November - How to Grow a Supermassive Black Hole
SPEAKERS
Below are some of our upcoming speakers for Michaelmas Term 2022.
Raphael Rowe is a journalist, best known for being wrongfully convicted of murder in 1990. Additionally, he is the host of Netflix's Inside the World's Toughest Prisons.
Date TBC
More Speakers will be confirmed and announced throughout the term - watch this space!
To Be Announced
Come and say hi!
Get a chance to visit the Union chamber, meet our officers, ask any questions you may have about the Union, and learn about the great benefits we provide to our members. We'll also be providing a debating taster session to anyone who's interested in trying debating. Refreshments and fizz will be provided.
Sunday, 2nd October - 1-5pm
Debating Chamber, Palace Green
UPCOMING SOCIALS
Throughout the year, the Union hosts a variety of socials. From karaoke at 24s to Beerfest to Prohibition-era parties, there is a social for everyone to enjoy. Below are some of our upcoming socials for Michaelmas Term.
Round the World Social Wednesday 26th October
Freshers' Social Wednesday 5th October
We'll be welcoming the new Freshers to the Union with an evening of drinks (and free pizza) in what is always one of our most popular socials.
Wine and Cheese Night Wednesday 16th November
DEBATING AT THE UNION
I came into Durham having never debated competitively before, and since then thanks to the training and opportunities on offer represented Durham in competitions across the country and across Europe, and have made friends for life both in Durham and from across the world
Matthew Midlane - Competitor, European Debating Champtionships 2022
With three training streams weekly, internal competitions and guaranteed funding for debaters of all abilities to access external competitions we offer the opportunity for speakers of any or no prior experience to develop and compete around the country.
As well as domestic competitions, we send teams to World and European Championships – this is a great chance to travel, with Spain, Bulgaria and Vietnam being the next three destinations.
We also host two competitio of the best university debati in the country) and Durham world’s largest residential sc competition), both with plen opportunities to speak, judg
24 NORTH BAILEY CLUB
Colloquially known as ‘24s’ by its loyal patrons, 24 North Bailey houses the Union’s bar. A grade two listed building with a lovely beer garden and spacious rooms that encapsulate the history and spirit of the society, many head here for an extensive drink menu and welcoming atmosphere.
The bar is the beating heart of the Union’s tight-knit community. Open every evening, it is a space to socialise and to let loose, frequented often by both members and non-members alike. After events you may go to 24s to socialise, as well to talk with our guest speakers, creating connections and enriching understanding with experts in various fields.
The bar is also the location of most of the Union’s socials, with specially designed ontheme cocktails and karaoke being frequently featured. See the centre page calendar for more details of 24s Socials.
Opening Times
8.30 - Midnight Friday and Saturday 8.30 - 11.30 Sunday to Thursday
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
There are many ways to get involved in the Union, with each individual making their own contribution. Putting together our termly programme is a huge task, involving a host of elected officers and committees.
President’s Committee - TBE after the Presidential election
Helps the President-Elect to prepare for their upcoming term, by researching potential speakers for addresses, debates and forums, and assisting them in sending invitations.
Secretary's Committee - Elections 13th October
With a representative from each of the University’s colleges, and made up entirely of freshers, they are responsible for gathering member feedback and publicising the Union in their college.
House Committee - Elections 13th October
Assists the Steward in their responsibilities before, during and after events in the Chamber
Equalities Committee - Elections 14th October
Assists the Equalities Officer in working to produce policies and practices that promote an open and inclusive environment at the Union, as well as acting as representatives for historically underrepresented groups.
Social Committee - Elections 14th October
Working with the Social Secretary, this committee helps organise and run the Union’s social events, from our termly balls to quieter socials in 24s.
Email returningofficer@dus.org.uk with a manifesto of no more than 100 words to self-nominate for a position on these committees when nominations open 7 days prior to elections to each committee.
MEET THE OFFICERS
Mia Harrison Director of Debating
Jamie Smallbone Debating Treasurer
To Be Elected Publicity Officer
Knight Social Secretary
Theo Osborn Technologies Officer
Speaker's Secretary - Theo Osborn
Steward - To Be Elected
Equalities Officer - Jerry Li
Sponsorship Officer - Will Rome
Deputy Tech Officer - Chris Straughan
Debates Comps Secretary - Laura White
Kiss President-Elect
Returning Officer - Matthew Brooker
Alumni Officer - Ryan Leung
Outreach Officer - Aditya Sharma
Assistant Custodian - To Be Elected
Assistant Secretary - To Be Elected
Debates Training Secretary - TBE
President Emeritus - Xavier Wain
Amy Mitchell President
Adam Albazy Treasurer
Eudo Ashbrooke Secretary
Evelyn
Theodore Stubbs Custodian
Jordan
Reciprocal Relations
Our members enjoy reciprocal relations with a number of our sister Union societies at other universities, as well as some societies here at Durham. - Oxford Union - Cambridge Union - Edinburgh Union - Trinity College Dublin Historical and Philosophical Societies - Durham Philosophy Society
PRESIDENT'S THANKS
The Union has been a part of every moment of my time at Durham, yet nothing could have prepared me for the mammoth task that is putting on a term The role of President is multi-faceted; you are events organiser, negotiator, spokesperson and confidant. The fact is, though, that the old phrase ‘the Jack of all trades is Master of none’ could not be more true. As such, none of this would have been possible without the support of the Union’s staff, officers and committee members, as well as my long-suffering friends.
From tolerating my hungover ramblings to offering guidance as I have planned my term, Sharon, the ‘Office Manager’ in dire need of a new title, has been irreplaceable
No doubt, Standing Committee works harder than the exec of any other society in Durham. Thank you to Adam for embracing the new role of treasurer, to Eudo for the freshers drive that is to come, to Sam for her contributions to publicity and to Jordan for supporting my decisions whilst working on his own term. Evelyn, I am so excited for the Ball and thank you for all of the work that has gone into making it the shining light of the term. Jamie and Mia, I appreciate your patience as I have learned to navigate the Union’s reinvigorated relationship with debating
I would also like to extend my appreciation to the rest of Gen Comm who commit themselves to making the Union the lively community that it is. In particular, thank you to Chris for contributions to the website and to Jerry for his commitment to championing our EDI initiatives, as well as my Pres Comm, without whom many of the events would not have been possible. Aditya also promises we will have stash this term.
With any term, there are bound to be a few hiccups so I would like to unreservedly thank Amelie and Jake who swept in to save the day on the publicity front, creating the beautiful brochure you read this in And thank you Oscar for keeping our social media ticking over.
Finally, I cannot thank the President Emeritus, Xavier, enough for his endless patience, support and friendship over the last few months. He has single-handedly advised me out of my moments of greatest self-doubt.
In a more roundabout but no less important way, I would never have been in this position if it hadn't been for my wonderful friends Ollie, Asha, Jack, Peter, Tom, Ryan, and Henry. You all got me through a very challenging time with enough left in me to be President.
For the two Theos, I am particularly grateful Theo S, you have not only been a friend but have worked beyond hard to bring 24s up to scratch Theo O, where do I start? Thank you for being so committed to your tech role, but also thank you for being such a wonderful Speakers’ Secretary. It would be no exaggeration to say that without your help, I may just have lost my mind. Amy Mitchell, President
