THE OXFORD UNION
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THE OXFORD UNION
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TRINITY 2019
Genevieve Athis President
Welcome to Trinity Term 2019! From its foundation in 1823, the Oxford Union has placed a high value on the voices of its members. It has furnished them with the opportunity to challenge the restrictions placed upon them by the University, to shine a light upon accepted wisdom and to question the value of superstition. And from its foundation, this has led to criticism from those who disagree with the Society’s conclusions. It was Winston Churchill who famously decried the Union’s ‘squalid, shameless avowal’ not to fight for King and Country in 1933. This is why the Union is not merely a platform, but a debating chamber. We do not seek only to host, but also to challenge, to explore, and to criticize the ideas of our speakers. Disagreement is not a dirty word. Yet if the Union is to be true to its principles, it must deconstruct the fundamental obstacles inherent to this ideal. To challenge any speaker, in an august chamber, in front of your peers, takes confidence. I envision a Union in which no-one is afraid to speak up and make their voice heard. Even more fundamentally, the Union must not only participate in but actively shape public discourse, both at University and in the wider world. I hope this term’s debates, on issues important to myself and, I hope, our members, reflect this desire, from the place of traditional masculinity in the modern world to the morality of wealth accumulation.
As a historic institution itself, the Union is a place to reflect on the past as well as to assess the issues of the present. From remembering the Tiananmen Square riots of thirty years ago to a discussion of how far women’s rights have advanced since 1918, this term we have aimed to focus on trailblazers throughout the generations who have paved the way for progress. None of this would have been possible without the dedication of this term’s Committee who have worked tirelessly over the vacation to make this term card possible. And whether it’s watching Billy Joel perform in our historic debating chamber or hearing from pioneers such as Cressida Dick about the challenges of leadership, I am confident that there will be something for everyone this Trinity. The Union should constantly be evolving in order to meet the needs of its members and there will always be areas for improvement. In just the last year we have seen the introduction of women’s public speaking workshops, the release of the Oxford Union’s very own app and additional roles added to its Access Committee, aiming to make sure that all members can fully engage with the Society. This was due to the hard work of members who saw something that needed to change and channeled their enthusiasm for the Society into its improvement. I would urge you to get involved in order to effect the change you want to see during your time here, and I can assure you that the benefits of it will be felt for years to come. You might surprise yourself, and everyone else, with what you can achieve.
Genevieve Athis Christ Church Trinity, 2019
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THE OXFORD UNION
Sara Dube Librarian
Treasurer
“There is no age limit to making a difference, there is only an age limit to thinking that you can.” March For Our Lives activist Edna Chavez delivered this message to a chamber full of our members last term. It is events such as this that remind me of why I joined the Union: to be part of a place that debates and discusses the most pertinent questions of our time, to give a platform to voices and messages that truly matter and to challenge the idea that still being in University is something that stops us from making a difference.
Welcome back to Oxford! I hope you have all had wonderful vacations and managed to get some well earned time off from revision. We have been hard at work in the Treasurer’s Office this vacation, to maintain the Union’s finances through partnerships both old and new. We’ve prioritised working with local corporate employers, to develop longer term sponsorship opportunities that will enable the Union to continue securing the visits of distinguished guest speakers, like the many outlined in the following pages.
As your Librarian this Trinity, it’s been a privilege to have organized this term’s speakers. From Judy Murray’s services to women in sport and Arunachalam Muruganantham’s inspiring social entrepreneurship, to panels on global gender inequality and modern statelessness, it is an honour to take part in these discussions. The Union can mean something different to everyone and I hope that each of you finds something that sparks agency, debate, or even a new way of looking at the world here this summer.
I am sure the fascinating topics for our debates will bring many of you down to the Union on Thursday evenings, and I would encourage you to make your voice heard by giving a floor speech – you might win a tasting menu for two or a night’s stay in a local five-star hotel! There’s nothing I like more than a cheeky discount, which is why we’ve made sure to expand our list of Treasurer’s Treats (as you’ll find on the enclosed card). With over 40 discounts available, from local shops, bars, cafés and restaurants, we have you covered!
In addition to hosting some of these incredible events, I will also be chairing our weekly meetings of Library Committee, responsible for choosing new library books and for other aspects of the Library’s management. Please reach out if you have any suggestions or if you’d like to get involved with Library Committee! I look forward to a term of stimulating and thought-provoking events and hope to see you all join the conversation at the Union this summer. Sara Dube St. Hugh’s College librarian@oxford-union.org
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Charlie Coverman
I’m also delighted to announce that we have abolished the £5 minimum card charge at the Union’s Bar for this term! You are now able to indulge in a pint of Boddingtons or try one of our delicious cupcakes without the need to carry cash. If you are interested in finding out more about the Union’s finances, or have any other questions or suggestions, please do ping me an email! Charlie Coverman Brasenose College treasurer@oxford-union.org
TRINITY 2019
Amelia Harvey Secretary
I hope every single one of you has enjoyed a restful and well-deserved Easter vacation and are looking forward to this Trinity Term! My job as Secretary is to ensure that the Union’s social calendar is exciting and engaging for all of our members. This term, the committee has put together a range of exciting speaker events and socials. I am delighted to announce two brand new social events here at the Union. On Friday of 3rd week, the Union will host its first Gin and Jazz night, featuring live music and an array of gin-based beverages. We will also be celebrating Oxford Pride with a Catwalks and Cocktails event, featuring live drag performances and a rainbow of drinks on Friday of 6th week. There will also be a number of events in the bar, including a Comedy Club Social with some of Oxford’s finest student comedians and our ever-popular Monday Night Pub Quizzes. With a wide range of socials and events this term, I sincerely hope everyone sees something for themselves in this term card.
Debates 4 Special Events
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Speakers 25 Socials 54 Information 62
The members are what make the Union such an interesting place. Whether through floor speeches at debates, questions at speaker events, and positive energy at socials, the members bring the Union to life. If you are interested in doing more at the Union, don’t hesitate to get in touch with either myself or one of the other dedicated officers. It has been a pleasure to work with this team so far and I look forward to a diverse and captivating term. Amelia Harvey Kellogg College secretary@oxford-union.org
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THE OXFORD UNION
Debates
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TRINITY 2019
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D E B AT E S
1. Toxic Masculinity Debate
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2. No Platforming Debate
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3. India No Confidence Debate
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4. Trump Debate
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5. Shamima Begum Debate
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6. Billionaires Debate
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7. Porn Debate
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The Oxford Union was established to protect and uphold the principle of free speech, and debating remains at the heart of the Society today. Debates are held on Thursday evenings during term on a variety of different topics and are often the highlight of the week. The timings for debates are as follows: 19:45 – Emergency Debate: These motions are different to that of the main debate and seek to address topical issues. They are set by the Consultative Committee each week, which any member can attend. 20:00 – Main Debate: Featuring high-profile speakers from around the world, our main debate motions are decided by committee over the vacation; details can be found on the pages which follow.
Members’ participation in debates is very much encouraged. A ballot will be released each week via email and our Facebook page for members to attend the pre-debate dinner with our guest speakers. In the Main Debate, points of information can be offered to guests during their speeches, and time is also reserved for members to give short floor speeches in order to respond to our guests on each side of the motion. There are exciting prizes for the best floor speakers in the Emergency and Main debates each week, including a tasting menu for two at Cinnamon Kitchen and a guided tour for two of Blenheim Palace.
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FIRST WEEK
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D E B AT E S
THURSDAY / 2ND MAY / 20:30
This House Rejects Traditional Masculinity The #MeToo movement has called into question the merits of the assertiveness and combative behaviour associated with traditional masculinity. In response, some defend masculinity as a uniting force for men in a world where suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 35. Must we reject traditional masculinity for men to participate authentically and responsibly in today’s society, or would this be an undue denial of identity?
Proposition
Opposition
Wade Davis A former American football player for the NFL, he is now an activist, writer, and educator. He supports an array of LGBTQIA+ initiatives, specifically regarding gay men in professional sports.
Jud Horras Currently President and CEO of the North American Intrafraternity Conference, he has worked in the fraternity administration at Beta Theta Pi since his graduation from Iowa State University.
Leila Brillson A former Executive Editor of Playboy, she currently works as a manager for Netflix Original Series, in addition to writing and editing for Refinery29 and Nylon.
Martin Daubney A journalist and commentator, he was the longest serving editor of Loaded, a publication known for being a ‘lad magazine’. Daubney also co-founded The Men & Boys Coalition.
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SECOND WEEK
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D E B AT E S
THURSDAY / 9TH MAY / 20:30
This House Supports No Platforming Over the past year, the Oxford Union has often found itself at the centre of a cultural conflict between those who defend no platforming and those who support free speech as an inalienable right. Should educational institutions prioritize the concerns of minority groups over free speech? And, more broadly, should free speech be upheld as an inherent right or are there some cases where it can, and should, be restricted?
Proposition
Opposition
Chief Justice Robert French AC A retired lawyer, he served as the twelfth Chief Justice of Australia and is currently the Chancellor of the University of Western Australia.
Katie Hopkins A former contestant on The Apprentice, she is now a media personality, columnist, and businesswoman. Hopkins has been dubbed by various media outlets as a ‘professional troll’ due to her array of controversial views.
Naz Shah MP A Labour MP, she currently serves as Shadow Minister of State for Women and Equalities. In 2016, she was temporarily suspended from her Party amidst controversy regarding a Facebook post about the US-Israel relationship.
Toby Young Former Director of the New Schools Network, Young is currently working as the London associate editor of Quillette. He is the author of the bestselling memoir How to Lose Friends and Alienate People.
Mariah Idrissi A model and activist, Idrissi gained recognition as the first Muslim hijab-wearing model when she appeared in H&M’s Close the Loop campaign in 2015.
Ann Widdocombe A former Conservative MP, she now serves as a Privy Councillor. Widdecombe was known during her time as an MP for opposing the legality of abortion and her support for blasphemy laws. 11
THIRD WEEK
TRINITY 2019
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D E B AT E S
THURSDAY / 16TH MAY / 20:30
This House Has No Confidence in Modi’s Government From growing concerns of intolerance amongst minorities to reinvigorating India’s position on the global stage, Prime Minister Modi’s tenure has been divisive. For far too long, the Oxford Union has approached debating Indian affairs through a predominantly colonial lens. Now, as the world’s largest democracy heads into a general election, the time has come to assess whether or not the Modi government has failed its people.
Proposition
Opposition
Salman Khurshid Having served as an MP, as well as Minister of External Affairs, Law and Justice, and Minority Affairs for the Government of India, he has been involved with the Indian National Congress Party since the early 1980s.
Dr. Subramanian Swamy MP An economist and politician, he is currently a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha. Dr. Swamy served as the President of the Janata Party until it merged with the BJP in 2013.
Yogendra Yadav An academic and politician, he is currently the President of Swaraj India. Yadav was a member of the National Executive of the Aam Aadmi Party until his ousting in 2015.
Janhavi Dadarkar Dadarkar is a British-Indian financial consultant and CEO of Maiora Consulting. She serves as Director of the Europe India Forum.
Prashant Bhushan A public interest lawyer in the Supreme Court of India, he helped in the formation of the Swaraj Abhiyan.
Gurcharan Das An author, commentator, and former CEO of Procter & Gamble India, he has published a number of books relating to economics and politics in India, including the international best seller India Unbound.
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FOURTH WEEK
TRINITY 2019
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D E B AT E S
THURSDAY / 23RD MAY / 20:30
This House Prefers Trump’s Foreign Policy to Obama’s President Trump’s foreign policy has sought to actively reverse strategic decisions made by President Obama, as is evident in the withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. Yet Trump’s “America First” focus has leveraged the Presidency to initiate conversations that would not have seemed possible in previous years. Is Trump’s display of nationalism preferable to Obama’s more cooperative approach?
Proposition
Opposition
Admiral Dennis Blair Former US Director of National Intelligence and retired US Navy admiral, he served in the White House under both Presidents Carter and Reagan. Admiral Blair worked as Obama’s first Director of National Intelligence before resigning in May 2010.
Amy Pope Former US Deputy Homeland Security Advisor to President Obama, she is currently a partner at Schillings. Prior to joining the White House, Pope worked in several positions at the US Department of Justice.
Rebeccah Heinrichs Specialising in nuclear deterrence and missile defence, she is currently a senior fellow of the Hudson Institute. Heinrichs was instrumental in starting the Bipartisan Missile Defence Caucus.
Secretary Jeh Johnson Previously the General Counsel of the Department of Defense, he went on to serve as the fourth US Secretary of Homeland Security in the Obama administration. He is now a parter at Paul Weiss.
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FIFTH WEEK
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D E B AT E S
THURSDAY / 30TH MAY / 20:30
This House Believes That Justice Has Been Done Shamima Begum Head-to-Head Since the beginning of this year, Britain has been transfixed by the question of whether Shamima Begum, who set out to Syria to support the Islamic State at 15, should be allowed to return to the UK. Did she forfeit her citizenship by deciding to support IS or should she have to face the British justice system? Has justice been done in the case of Shamima Begum?
Proposition Emma Webb, Civitas Director of the Centre for the Study of European Civilisation at Civitas, Webb is a former research fellow at the Centre for Radicalisation and Terrorism at the Henry Jackson Society.
Opposition Mohammed Akunjee A criminal defence solicitor who specialises in the field of terrorism law and repatriation of ‘regrettees’, Akunjee has acted as the solicitor for Shamima Begum’s family since 2015.
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SIXTH WEEK
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D E B AT E S
WEDNESDAY / 5TH JUNE / 20:30
This House Believes it is Immoral to be a Billionaire Within the context of increasing inequality in today’s world, questions have been raised about whether the very existence of billionaires poses a moral dilemma. Billionaires, their businesses, and their philanthropic endeavours create and improve millions of lives globally. But is the mere existence of such wealth symptomatic of a system that is fundamentally broken? Do billionaires have a moral responsibility to anyone but themselves?
Proposition
Opposition
Anand Giridharadas Author of Winners Take All, and a former columnist for the New York Times, Giridharadas is currently Editor-at-Large for TIME and a political analyst at MSNBC.
Helen Thomas CFA Having worked in financial markets for over 17 years, Thomas was an adviser to George Osborne during the financial crisis. She founded her own macroeconomic consulting firm, BlondeMoney, in 2017.
Professor Mehrsa Baradaran A law professor at the University of Georgia specialising in banking law, she has written two books, How the Other Half Banks and The Color of Money.
Peter Singer A moral philosopher specialising in applied ethics, he approaches ethical issues from a secular, utilitarian perspective. His essay Famine, Affluence, and Morality argues for a more philanthropic society.
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SEVENTH WEEK
TRINITY 2019
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D E B AT E S
THURSDAY / 13TH JUNE / 20:30
This House Believes That Porn has a Place in Sex Education With over 60% of young people today turning to pornography in search of information on sexual activity that they are not taught in school, we can no longer consider it as taboo. Can pornography offer important educational benefits to teenagers, helping to develop their emerging sexual identities? Or, rather, does it only offer an unrealistic version of sexuality that contributes to dangerous misconceptions about sexual pleasure?
Proposition
Opposition
Dr. Christian Jessen Famous for presenting a variety of health and fitness orientated TV shows, from Embarrassing Bodies to Supersize vs Superskinny, Jessen is a practising doctor and TV personality.
Maggie Atkinson Serving as the Children’s Commissioner from 2010 to 2015, Atkinson is a member of the Department of Health’s Children and Young People’s Health Outcomes Forum.
Dr. Ruth Westheimer A German-American sex therapist, media personality, and author, she began her career in 1980 with a radio show called Sexually Speaking, which continued until 1990.
Lisa Ann A pornographic actress and radio personality, she retired from performing in the industry in 2014. She worked as a talent agent for models, eventually starting her own agency to represent women over 30 who were continuously turned away.
Anja Rubik One of the most successful supermodels of the past few decades, Rubik has starred in a plethora of fashion campaigns. Her campaign #sexedpl, aims to raise awareness about sexual education despite opposition from the Polish government. With thanks to the Oxford University Polish Society.
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THE OXFORD UNION
Special Events A defining element of the Oxford Union is our ability to host and promote meaningful and relevant conversations. From the Modern Slavery Panel in Michaelmas to the March for our Lives Panel in Hilary, we strive to hold significant discussions and bring together a diverse array of voices; this term is no exception. In the tradition of interesting special events, we are proud to be hosting a range of thoughtprovoking panels. From examining the future of centrist politics in the UK to gaining a better understanding of the human rights abuses of North Korea, this term we aim to empower marginalised voices through powerful discourse.
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Voices from North Korea
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Gender Inequality Panel 22 Tiananmen Panel
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Centrism Panel 24
TRINITY 2019
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SPECIAL EVENTS
TUESDAY / 21ST MAY / 20:00 Voices from North Korea
In Conversation with Ji Hyeona and Kim Jeong-Ah For decades, North Korea has been one of the most secretive countries in the world. It is virtually impossible to hear the voices of its ordinary citizens, and even harder to uncover the brutal atrocities committed by its regime. An opportunity to interact with individuals who have managed to escape from North Korea will be informative about the challenges they faced, their lived experiences, and the work they have done since defecting. It also reflects the different avenues by which North Korean defectors have fought for their cause and shed light on the Hermit Kingdom.
Ji Hyeona A human rights activist and author, Hyeona fled North Korea four times, but was arrested in China and repatriated. She was able to successfully defect in 2002, eventually reaching South Korea.
Kim Jeong-Ah Before defecting from North Korea in 2006, Kim served in the military for 7 years. Today, she heads an NGO which helps children that have been separated from their mothers in the course of their defection from North Korea.
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THE OXFORD UNION
WEDNESDAY / 22ND MAY / 20:00 Gender Inequality Panel
Unfinished Business: Gender Inequality in the 21st Century As of 2019, only six countries can boast of having total equality in legal rights between men and women. Despite changing public perceptions about the importance of gender equality, women and men cannot truly be equal until the law affords them equality of opportunity. In a world in which the fight towards gender equality is often viewed as already won, it is more important than ever to recognize the legal barriers women continue to face in their day-to-day lives. In the words of Hilary Clinton, “the rights of women and girls are the unfinished business of the 21st century.”
Dame Janet Smith English barrister and former High Court Judge, Dame Janet was named one of the 100 Most Powerful Women in the UK on BBC Radio 4.
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Polly Neate Former head of Women’s Aid, Neate secured legislation to criminalise coercive and controlling behaviour and launched the Safer Futures project to prevent domestic abuse.
Ruchira Gupta Sex trafficking abolitionist, journalist, and activist, Gupta established Apne Aap Women Worldwide to address women’s rights and to eradicate sex trafficking.
Harini Iyengar Iyengar is a barrister, author of A Practical Guide to the Law of Gender Pay Gap Reporting, and the Women’s Equality Party’s No. 1 GLA 2020 List Candidate.
TRINITY 2019
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SPECIAL EVENTS
FRIDAY / 31ST MAY / 20:00 Tiananmen Panel
Remembering Tiananmen: 30 Years On 30 Years on from the Tiananmen Square protests and massacres, the torch of democracy and freedom is increasingly difficult to carry in China. Through censorship and collective amnesia, the events of 1989 have often been diminished. Millions poured onto the streets in a peaceful protest, and the government violently retaliated. How important is this memory and legacy to pro-democracy movements in China today, and how can we best commemorate the protests and demands of students and workers on the Square?
Fengsuo Zhou Zhou was a leader of the pro-democracy Tiananmen protests, and fifth on the most wanted list of student leaders. He now works in the Chinese Democracy Education Fund.
Wu’er Kaixi Kaixi had an important student presence in 1989, and was second on the most wanted list. He was a leader of hunger strikes and was responsible for organising the protests.
Dongfang Han Dongfang is a labour and democracy activist. He founded Communist China’s first independent union, becoming the most wanted worker leader. He now leads the China Labour Bulletin.
Dr Shao Jiang Jiang was a member of the student leadership, who spent 8 years under house arrest as a prisoner of conscience in China.
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THE OXFORD UNION
THURSDAY / 6TH JUNE / 20:00 Centrism Panel
Reclaiming the Centre Ground As a result of ever increasing political polarisation, a gap has opened up in the British centreground. With the formation of new centrist groups like Change UK (formerly The Independent Group) somewhat echoing the Group of Four, and the continued presence of the Liberal Democrats, we ask: what does the future of the British centre-ground look like? Will this be a radical transformation of British politics or yet another failed attempt to break the two-party system?
Sir Vince Cable MP MP for Twickenham and Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Britain’s largest pro-European and centrist party, Sir Vince recently said the Liberal Democrats are open to cooperating with Change UK.
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Ryan Wain Wain is the CEO of United for Change, a centrist political movement founded in August 2018 which seeks to “promote long-term solutions to the UK’s problems”.
Anna Soubry MP Formerly a Conservative, Soubry now sits with the members of Change UK. She has been highly critical of “May’s capitulation to Eurosceptics, and Corbyn’s to the hard-left”.
TRINITY 2019
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SPEAKERS
Speakers Over the course of each vacation, the Oxford Union Committee works to create a unique and diverse calendar of events. This term’s events will include a range of influential and prominent individuals, from activists to musicians, business people to authors, tech innovators to heads of state. We hope that each and every one of you finds an event that inspires you this Trinity.
Week 1
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Week 2
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Week 3
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Week 4
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The Committee will continue to work diligently during term to add new speakers to the line up and announce them on our different platforms. Check out the Oxford Union website, Facebook page, or app for the most recent schedule of events. Be sure to look out for our Facebook events, where you can ballot for meet and greet opportunities with the speakers.
Week 5
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Week 6
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Week 7
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Week 8
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Please do keep in mind that one of the challenges inherent in the process of hosting such high calibre speakers is the nature of their schedules. In cases where a speaker’s schedule changes on short notice, we will do all we can do reorganise the event for a different date, as well as ensure that members are given sufficient notice of any cancellations or changes.
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THE OXFORD UNION
TUESDAY / 30 APRIL / 20:00
Dr. Craig Wright The Original Satoshi Vision for Bitcoin An Australian computer scientist and businessman, Wright has claimed to be the engine of the team that created Bitcoin and the true identity of “Satoshi Nakamoto”. He will be joined by his business partner Jimmy Nguyen, the CEO of nChain. Together they aim to restore the original Bitcoin protocol, to keep it stable, and to enable massive on-chain scaling, to promote the global growth of their new Bitcoin SV. With all of Bitcoin’s recent controversy, they aim to restore its place as the dominant and safe global cryptocurrency.
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TRINITY 2019
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SPEAKERS
WEDNESDAY / 1 MAY / 17:30
Cressida Dick CBE QPM Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Service Appointed in 2017 as the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Service, Cressida Dick is the first openly gay woman to hold what is considered to be the highest-ranking police officer position in the UK. Dick graduated with an MPhil in Criminology from Cambridge with the highest grade in the year. She has been critical of the cuts to police funding and the risk this poses in tackling violent crimes. She has been a long-time advocate for an increase in the number of female police officers. 29
THE OXFORD UNION
WEDNESDAY / 1 MAY / 20:00
Congressman Barney Frank Former US Representative for Massachusetts A member of the US House of Representatives from 1981 to 2013 and a Democrat, Congressman Frank served as the Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee and was a leading co-sponsor of the 2010 Dodd–Frank Act, a sweeping reform of the US financial industry. He has been considered the most prominent gay politician in the United States, and was the first member of Congress to voluntarily come out as gay. In 2012, he became the first member of Congress to marry someone of the same sex whilst in office.
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TRINITY 2019
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SPEAKERS
FRIDAY / 3 MAY / 20:00
Judy Murray OBE Tennis Coach Renowned tennis player and coach, Murray was the first coach of her two sons Jamie and Andy Murray. Vocal about sexism in sports, Murray has worked to reduce gender biases in tennis and beyond. She was awarded an OBE in 2017 for services to tennis, women in sport and charity. Murray also took part as a competitor in the 12th series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2014.
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THE OXFORD UNION
WEDNESSDAY / 8 MAY / 17:00
Sean Fitzpatrick ONZM Former All Blacks Captain Widely considered one of the best rugby players of all time, Fitzpatrick joined the All Blacks in 1986 and became its captain in 1992. Fitzpatrick holds the world record for playing in 63 consecutive test matches, and led the team to a series win in 1993 as well as to victory at the first Tri-Nations tournament in 1996. He has since served as a member of the board of Harlequins and written a best-selling book titled Winning Matters.
THURSDAY / 9 MAY / 17:00
Craig David Singer and Songwriter David is an English artist whose first single Fill Me In soared to the top of the charts in the UK. He has been nominated for fourteen BRIT Awards and for the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance twice. In 2010, he was appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador against tuberculosis by the WHO. David will be joined by his manager, Colin Lester. Lester is the Chairman and CEO of the JEM Music Group. Since 1999, Lester has been working with David as his manager. Lester is a recipient of the Peter Grant Award for his career as an artist manager.
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TRINITY 2019
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SPEAKERS
FRIDAY / 10 MAY / 17:00
Prime Minister Mia Mottley QC MP Prime Minister of Barbados Leader of the Barbados Labour party, Mottley is Barbados’ first female Prime Minister. MP since 1994, she has held multiple ministerial portfolios, including the post of Attorney-General of Barbados. Having served two terms as the Leader of the Opposition, she won by a historic landslide in 2018, with the Mottley-led Barbados Labour Party securing all 30 seats in the House, the first party to accomplish this feat, with a clear 72.8% of the popular vote - the highest share ever achieved by a party in the nation’s history. She ran on a promise of social justice in a time of deep austerity.
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THE OXFORD UNION
FRIDAY / 10 MAY / 20:00
Chris Kamara Sports Commentator and Former Professional Footballer Professional footballer, manager and presenter on Sky Sports, Kamara is well known for his deep knowledge of the game and his occasional on-air gaffes. Having faced severe racial abuse during his career as a player, Kamara is incredibly vocal about racial discrimination and was inducted into the Show Racism the Red Card Hall of Fame in 2004. Kamara currently provides commentary for Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway.
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TRINITY 2019
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SPEAKERS
MONDAY / 13 MAY / 17:00
Radhika Jones Editor-in-Chief of Vanity Fair Jones is the fifth Editor-in-Chief of the Vanity Fair Magazine. She formerly worked for The New York Times, The Paris Review and TIME magazine. Jones is an alumnus of Harvard and Columbia, and has previously taught courses in creative writing and literature. Charged with the challenge of seeing the magazine’s further integration with the online world, Jones is at the forefront of a new era of media.
MONDAY / 13 MAY / 20:00
Tracy Edwards MBE Maiden thirty years later: Did we really make a difference? Having skippered the first all-female crew in the Whitbread Round the World Yacht Race in 1989, Edwards became the first woman to receive the Yachtsman of the Year Trophy and was awarded an MBE for this feat. Edwards worked as a Project Manager for the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre in its International Youth Advisory Conference. She is currently a patron of, fundraises for and supports the education of girls and young women around the world. 35
THE OXFORD UNION
TUESDAY / 14 MAY / 20:00
Dr. Ha-Joon Chang Author of Kicking Away the Ladder Chang is a renowned economist, specialising in development economics. He has served as a consultant to various UN agencies, the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, the European Investment Bank, and Oxfam. His publications have enjoyed extensive commercial and academic success, with Kicking Away the Ladder winning the Gunnar Myrdal Prize. In 2013 Chang was listed as one of the top twenty world thinkers by Prospect magazine.
WEDNESDAY / 15 MAY / 17:00
Chris Robshaw Former Captain of the English Rugby Union Team Robshaw was the captain of the English National Rugby Union team from 2012 to 2015 and led the team to 25 wins. His widely praised captaincy was seen as a key part of the team’s success. Robshaw is a two-time Aviva Premiership Player of the Year winner and is currently playing for Harlequin F.C.
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TRINITY 2019
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SPEAKERS
WEDNESDAY / 15 MAY / 20:00
Kizza Besigye Ugandan Opposition Leader Besigye is an Ugandan politician, physician, and former military officer. Having served as the President of the Forum for Democratic Change political party, he ran for presidency four times against Museveni, who has been the President of Uganda since 1986. Besigye has been persecuted by the government on multiple occasions for his criticism of the Museveni administration and is currently barred from running in the 2021 elections, following his rejection of the official results of the 2016 poll which he declared invalid.
MONDAY / 20 MAY / 17:00
Ambassador S. Tayeb Jawad Afghan Ambassador to the United Kingdom Jawad is the current Ambassador of Afghanistan to the United Kingdom. He has served as the Senior Political and Foreign Policy Advisor to the Chief Executive of Afghanistan, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Abdullah. In addition to this, he was Ambassador to the United States until 2010 and the Chief of Staff to the President of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai. Jawad is also a fellow at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.
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TUESDAY / 21 MAY / 17:00
Jared Harris Actor & Mad Men Star Harris is a British actor who has had roles in Mad Men, Lincoln, The Crown, and The Terror. He won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series for his part in Downton Abbey and received critical acclaim for his role as King George VI in The Crown. Harris has recently signed on to take the role of Dr. Michael Morbius in Sony’s Spider-Man spinoff Morbius.
WEDNESDAY / 22 MAY / 17:00
Natalia Vodianova Supermodel and Entrepreneur Vodianova, a Russian supermodel, philanthropist, and entrepreneur, is notable for being one of the highest paid models in the industry, having signed a seven-figure contract with Calvin Klein. Vodianova launched Elbi in 2015, a digital platform that facilitates philanthropy using micro-donations. She is a member of the Special Olympics International Board of Directors and founded the Naked Heart Foundation, an organization committed to helping children with special needs and their families.
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THURSDAY / 23 MAY / 17:00
Morena Baccarin Actor & Deadpool Star Baccarin is a Brazilian-American actor who has appeared in Deadpool, Homeland, Firefly, and Spy. She won Best Actress in the Wine Country Film Festival for Way Off Broadway and was recently nominated for her performance in Deadpool for three categories in the MTV Movie Awards and Teen Choice Awards. Currently, she portrays Dr. Leslie Thompkins in the Gotham series.
FRIDAY / 24 MAY / 17:00
Arunachalam Muruganantham Pad Man Muruganantham is the inventor of a low-cost sanitary padmaking machine and has worked to increase awareness of unhygienic practices around menstruation. In 2014, he was ranked in TIME magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in the world and in 2016, he was awarded the Padma Shri award by the Indian Government. His story has been the subject of numerous films, with Period. End of Sentence. winning the 2018 Academy Award for the Best Documentary (Short Subject). 39
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WEEK 4 / TBC
Olivier Giroud World Cup winning Footballer Giroud is a World Cup winning French professional footballer who plays as a forward for Chelsea. Considered to be one of the best French footballers of his generation, he is the nation’s third-highest goal scorer with 35 goals in 89 caps. In the final of UEFA Euro 2016 he received the Bronze Boot as joint second-highest goal scorer. Whilst at Arsenal, Giroud was a central part of their three FA Cup winning squads and won the 2017 FIFA Puskás Award for the goal of the year, for his scorpion kick against Crystal Palace.
WEEK 4 / TBC
Celia Imrie Actor & Author Olivier-award winning actor, Imrie has been described as “one of the most successful British actresses of recent decades” by TIME magazine. She is most well known for her role in the critically acclaimed The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel film series. In addition to her work on television and in theatre, Imrie is a Sunday Times best-selling author and has also been vocal in promoting refugee rights.
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TUESDAY / 28 MAY / 20:00
Carles Puigdemont MP Head of the Catalonian Resistance Puigdemont was the President of the Government of Catalonia from January 2016 to October 2017, until his removal from office by the Spanish Government following the unilateral declaration of independence of Catalonia, which sparked uproar and unrest across the region. Puigdemont began his career as a journalist and was the Editor-in-Chief of El Punt. He was later the Director of the Catalan News Agency, as well as the Director of Girona’s cultural centre Casa de Cultura, before being elected Mayor of Girona. Chair of the Catalan European Democratic Party (PDeCAT) and leader of the Junts per Catalunya (JuntsxCat) electoral alliance, he is now residing in Belgium, living in exile.
WEDNESDAY / 29 MAY / 17:00
Zoë Wanamaker CBE Actor & Harry Potter Star An American-born British actor, Wanamaker has been highly acclaimed, with her nine Olivier Award nominations, four Tony Award nominations, and multiple BAFTA nominations which are a testament to her talent on the stage and on screen. From Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone to Agatha Christie’s Poirot, she has amazed audiences far and wide on the big screen. Having worked extensively with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre, she is skilled in many styles of acting, and has recently been selected for the fourth consecutive year as the voiceover of the Olivier Awards, delighting theatre fanatics.
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WEDNESDAY / 29 MAY / 20:00
Senator Tim Scott US Senator for South Carolina Scott is the first African-American Senator for South Carolina and has held the position since 2013. He previously served as a member of the House of Representatives for two terms and is the first African-American to serve in both Chambers of Congress. Scott also served on the Charleston County Council and the South Carolina General Assembly. In addition, he has achieved success in the world of business and is a Partner in Pathway Real Estate Group, LLC, in additon to having set up his own insurance company.
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THURSDAY / 30 MAY / 17:00
Kristian Nairn Hodor in Game of Thrones A Northern Irish actor and DJ, Kristian Nairn is best known for his role as the Game of Thrones’ gentle giant, Hodor. Nairn has been outspoken on LGBTQIA+ issues through his public discussion of his gay identity, remarking that his sexuality is “a very small part of who I am on the whole, but nonetheless, in this day and age, it’s important to stand up and be counted.”
FRIDAY / 31 MAY / 17:00
James Quincey CEO of The Coca-Cola Company Currently the President and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, Quincey began working at the company in 1996 and served as its COO from 2015. A new leader in the international beverage industry, Quincey has launched a plan to recycle one bottle for every bottle sold by the year 2030. Recently, The Coca-Cola Company announced the acquisition of Costa Coffee, a move that sheds light on Quincey’s innovations since taking over as CEO.
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SATURDAY / 1 JUNE / 17:00
Ambassador John R. Bolton National Security Advisor of the United States Bolton was appointed as the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs in 2018. Prior to his appointment, Bolton served as a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a contributor to FOX News. He served as United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations between 2005 and 2006. Prior to that appointment, Bolton served as Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security. Bolton has authored numerous books regarding U.S. foreign and national security policy.
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MONDAY / 03 JUNE / 17:00
Graeme Smith Cricket Commentator & Former Captain of the South African National Cricket Team Smith is a South African cricket commentator and former professional cricketer who was the captain of his national team until 2014. Considered to be one of the greatest South African players of all time, Smith is the only player to captain a side for more than 100 Tests – holding the world record. He is also considered to be one of the most successful captains in test history, having achieved 53 test wins.
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MONDAY / 3 JUNE / 20:00
Cody Keenan Speechwriter to President Barack Obama The former Director of Speechwriting for President Barack Obama, Keenan was tasked with some of the President’s most notable speeches, such as that on the 50th Anniversary of Bloody Sunday. A political scientist at Northwestern University, he worked in the Senate office of Ted Kennedy after his graduation, before studying for a Master’s in Public Policy at the Harvard Kennedy School. He then took on a full-time position in Obama’s presidential campaign, before his promotion to Deputy Director of Speechwriting. In 2013, Keenan became Director of Speechwriting, and his work was characterised by focus “on individual, hard-work stories, as parables for what is difficult, but still possible, in America”.
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TUESDAY / 4 JUNE / 20:00
Judge Rinder Television Personality Judge Rinder, a practising criminal barrister, is known for his role in the eponymous British courtroom-style television show famous for its arbitration in civil cases. Previously described as “the Simon Cowell of the bench”, Rinder has written television scripts and in 2015 released his first book Rinder Rules. He became a columnist for the London Evening Standard in 2017 and has previously written a legal-based discussion column in The Sun.
THURSDAY / 6 JUNE / 17:00
Lord Michael Heseltine Conservative Statesman An outspoken critic of Brexit, Lord Heseltine’s political career has spanned over five decades. Serving in both the Cabinets of Thatcher and Major, Lord Heseltine was Deputy Prime Minister and First Secretary of State from 1995- 97. Throughout his political career, Lord Heseltine has been a proponent of Conservative modernisation. His support for the regeneration of Liverpool in the early 1980s and opposition to the Poll Tax of 1990, resulted in his eventual alienation from the Thatcher administration. Lord Heseltine was Treasurer of the Union seventy-five years ago this Trinity, going on to serve as its President the term after.
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TUESDAY / 11 JUNE / 17:00
Nick Robinson BBC Presenter Robinson is currently a presenter on the BBC’s Today programme, having formerly presented programmes such as Westminster Live, Weekend Breakfast, and Newsnight. He has previously worked as a political editor for both the BBC as well as ITV News. Robinson is known for his confrontational approach, having famously clashed with George W. Bush in 2006. He continues to keep a blog on the BBC website and has presented various BBC radio series.
TUESDAY / 11 JUNE / 20:00
Fiona Shaw Actor and Director Famous for her roles as Aunt Petunia in the Harry Potter films and as Marine Stonebrook in the HBO series True Blood, Fiona Shaw is an Irish actor and theatre director. She has worked extensively with the National Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Company and has won the Olivier Award for Best Actress twice. In 1997 she performed T.C. Eliot’s poem The Waste Land as a one-person show, winning the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding One-Person Show. Shaw currently stars in the hit show Killing Eve as Carolyn Martens.
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WEDNESDAY / 12 JUNE / 17:00
Rosanna Arquette Actor, Director, & Producer Arquette is an acclaimed American actor, film director, and film producer. She was nominated for an Emmy Award for her performance in the 1982 film The Executioner’s Song, and won the BAFTA Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her role in Desperately Seeking Susan. A highly prolific actor, she has appeared in iconic films such as Pulp Fiction and The Aviator, receiving numerous awards and public recognition for her work.
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WEDNESDAY / 12 JUNE / 20:00
Philip Pullman Author of The Golden Compass Author of the bestselling His Dark Materials trilogy, Pullman has been named one of the “50 greatest British writers since 1945” by The Times. Northern Lights, the first book in this series, was named the all-time “Carnegie of Carnegies” in 2007. With the recent release of La Belle Sauvage, he has reopened the world of Lyra’s Oxford to fans of his original trilogy. Pullman has also been vocal on many book-related and political issues, from campaigning to stop children’s books being labelled as ‘for girls’ or ‘for boys’ to strong criticism of Brexit as symptomatic of Britain’s “post second-world-war delusion that we are still a great power.”
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FRIDAY / 14 JUNE / 17:00
Billy Joel An evening of questions and answers‌. and a little music. One of the most popular entertainers in history, Joel has sold 150 million records over the past quarter century. He continues to be one of the largest concert draws in the world and, in December 2013, became Madison Square Garden’s first-ever music franchise. A year later, in November 2014, Joel was honoured with the ASCAP Centennial Award, which is presented to American music icons in recognition of their accomplishments in their music genres and beyond. Joel is also a recipient of the MusiCares Person of The Year for his accomplishments as a musician as well as a humanitarian.
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WEEK 7 / TBC
Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli Prime Minister of Nepal & Chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal Prime Minister Oli is a Nepalese politician, currently serving as the Prime Minister of Nepal and Chairman of the Nepal Communist Party. He was the first person to serve as Prime Minister under Nepal’s new constitution, which was adopted in 2015. Arrested in 1974 for championing the cause of democracy and the establishment of a republican state, Oli was released in 1987. He went on to be elected to the House of Representatives, and served in other ministerial positions before being elected Prime Minister last year.
MONDAY / 17 JUNE / 20:00
James Carville Bill Clinton’s Campaign Manager A political commentator and media personality, Carville gained national attention for his work as lead strategist of President Bill Clinton’s presidential campaigns. He has also worked on a number of foreign campaigns, including those of Tony Blair, Ehud Baral, and Gonzalo Sánchez de Lozada. Carville was the co-host of CNN’s Crossfire and, since 2009, he has been hosting a weekly program on XM Radio titled 60/20 Sports.
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TUESDAY / 18 JUNE / 17:00
Opal Tometi Founder of Black Lives Matter Tometi is a Nigerian-American human rights activist, writer, and co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement. Responsible for the movement’s social media during its early stages, she has continued to fight for African-American rights. She has been recognised as a top civil rights leader by the Los Angeles Times and The Guardian, and was named in Fortune magazine’s list of the world’s greatest leaders. She is currently the Executive Director of the Black Alliance for Just Immigration.
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TUESDAY / 18 JUNE / 20:00
Mmusi Maimane South African Opposition Leader Maimane is currently the leader of the Democratic Alliance political party and the head of the Opposition in the National Assembly of South Africa. Having previously run for Mayor of Johannesburg in the 2011 municipal elections, he garnered much support for the party, despite not winning his election. Maimane is also a pastor and elder of the deeply conservative Liberty Church.
THURSDAY / 20 JUNE / 17:00
Ken Starr Former United States Solicitor General Starr is most famous for his tenure as an Independent Counsel during President Bill Clinton’s presidency and the resulting Starr Report, which led to Clinton’s impeachment. He previously served as a federal Court of Appeals Judge and Solicitor General for President George H. W. Bush. Starr was the President and Chancellor of Baylor University but resigned in 2016, severing ties with the University.
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DATE AND TIME TBC
Lily Allen Singer & Songwriter Allen is an English singer and songwriter who, since her debut in 2006, has been one of the country’s most prominent artists. Her hit singles, from Fuck You to The Fear, have earned her a BRIT Award and a Grammy, amongst other accolades. In addition to her music, Allen is also known as an outspoken public figure on both cultural and political issues. She has released four albums, and last year authored a memoir entitled My Thoughts Exactly.
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Socials In conjunction with our renowned speaker events, the Union puts on an array of entertaining socials for its members to enjoy. This term will play host to a number of socials to help liven up your Trinity Term and continue the trend of new and innovative events. From our first ever Gin & Jazz Night, to our first ever Catwalks & Cocktails Social to celebrate Oxford Pride the Union promises to be a bustling social hub this Trinity. Tickets for our events will be sold via the FIXR app. Feel free to pop into the Members’ Bar at any point this term for a coffee in a laptop-free zone or to take part in one of our lively pub quizzes or even enjoy our rousing Comedy Club. For any further information, please contact the Secretary, Amelia Harvey, at secretary@oxford-union.org.
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PUB QUIZ
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GIN & JAZZ
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COMEDY CLUB
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CAT WALKS & COCKTAILS
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This term’s pub quizzes will be hosted in the Members’ Bar (now without a card minimum!).
Think you’re a trivia master? Come test your knowledge on everything from pop culture to ancient history. Build a team and test your knowledge for a £100 prize!
Dates: Monday 6th May 2019 (2nd Week) Monday 27th May 2019 (5th Week) Monday 10th June 2019 (7th Week) - TBC All from 20:00 If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Amelia Harvey: secretary@oxford-union.org.
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Friday 17th May 2019 (3rd Week) 20:00 - 22:00 Dress Code: Black Tie Tickets available through the FIXR app from 13:00 on Monday 6th May 2019 (2nd week)
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Monday 20th May 2019 (4th Week) 20:00 - 22:00 Join us in the Members’ Bar for a night of laughs! The Oxford Union will be showcasing up-and-coming student comedians accompanied by cocktail specials. Featuring: Chloe Jacobs, Anna Dominey, Suzie Murray and Chelsea Birkby 60
RT ROOF TERRACE
TABLE SERVICE
TAKE AWAY
STUDENT OFFER
BREAKFAST
LUNCH
DINNER
Indian Bar & Grill. Modern twists on Indian classics. Our restaurant specializes in modern-Indian cuisine with British influences using innovative cooking techniques. Dine with us for brunch, lunch or dinner and experience the new Cinnamon Kitchen menu, and extraordinary cocktail range created by Vivek Singh with one of the world’s most influential mixologists, Tony Conigliaro.
Famous For!
Tandoori rump of lamb, butter chicken and king prawn curry. Signature cocktails (Cinnamon Bellini ) and Classic cocktails.
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Friday 7th June 2019 (6th Week) 20:00 - 22:00 Includes: Free entry to Plush until midnight + Queue jump. £2 Entry after midnight - all proceeds go to Oxford Pride! Dress Code: Black Tie with a Twist Tickets available through the FIXR app from 13:00 on Monday 20 May 2019 (4th Week)
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PLUSH OXFORD
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SOCIALS
OXFORD ’S PREMIER LGBTQ+ BAR AND CLUB
PLUSH BAR COCKTAILS . CRAFT BEERS WINES . CHAMPAGNES . OVER 30 GINS TUESDAY - FRIDAY: FROM 4.30PM SATURDAY: FROM 9.00PM SUNDAY: FROM 7.00PM
PLUSH CLUB SKITTLES TUESDAYS OXFORD ’S ONLY QUEER STUDENT NIGHT 11.00PM - 3.00AM (DURING TERM) POUNDED THURSDAYS £1 ENTRY . £1 DRINKS 10.00PM - 3.30AM FOREPLAY FRIDAYS FOREPL 10 DRINKS FOR £2/EACH 10.00PM - 3.30AM
Free en try for Union Membe rs on Thu rsdays !
BENT. SATURDAYS 99P DRINKS BEFORE MIDNIGHT 10.00PM - 3.30AM
PLUSHOXFORD.COM FREWIN COURT . OXFORD . OX1 3HZ
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Member’s Information
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Guest Policy
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How To Stay Informed
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How It Works
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Treasurer’s Treats
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Competitive Debating
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Women’s Public Speaking Workshops
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Library
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The Members’ Bar
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The Oxford Union Committee
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Appointed Committee & Staff
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How To Get Involved
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Term Planner
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Guest Policy Members are allowed to bring up to three guests to an event, as long as: 1. The guest is not themselves eligible for membership of the Oxford Union. 2. The guest pays a £10 fee on the door. 3. All members who wish to attend the event have already taken their seats. 4. The guest has not already visited three times that term. Events will be made exclusive to members when there is a security risk. Given (3) above, it is unlikely that there will be space for guests at a popular event.
How To Stay Informed This Trinity, we are proud to release the Oxford Union app for Android devices. The Oxford Union app is already available for download on iOS. From notifications about new speakers, to events that sync with your calendar, the app is the best way to stay up to date with all things Union. Head over to the App Store to download the Oxford Union app for free. Sign up to our mailing list by entering your email address on our website homepage: www.oxfordunion.org. On our Facebook page click ‘Like’ and then turn notifications on from the drop-down menu which appears. All of our events will be advertised on Facebook a week in advance of the date itself.
OXFORD UNION APP
theoxfordunion @oxfordunion @theoxfordunion oxfordunion oxford-union.org
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How It Works Standing Committee Chair – Genevieve Athis, President The Union’s governing body, which makes all major decisions concerning the running of the Society, and oversees the work of all committees. Mondays, 16:00, President’s Office
Access Committee Chairs – Rabii Malik and Felicity Graham, Access Officers Responsible for the promotion of wider participation in, and engagement with, the Society. Fridays, 13:00, President’s Office
Finance Committee Chair – Charlie Coverman, Treasurer This committee scrutinizes all areas of the Union’s finances, reporting its findings to the Standing Committee. Mondays, 15:00, President’s Office
Debate Selection Committee Chair – Lee Chin Wee, CDSC Responsible for organising internal competitions and training, and for selecting members to represent the Union at external debating competitions. Sundays, 17:00, Gladstone Room
Consultative Committee Chair – Elliot Bromley, CCC A chance for members to question the elected Committee, suggest emergency debate motions, and hear updates on upcoming events. Mondays, 13:15, The Gladstone Room Library Committee Chair – Sara Dube, Librarian Responsible for choosing new books for the Union’s Library, considering member’s suggestions and for all other aspects of its management. Mondays, 14:15, Morris Room
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Bar Strategy Committee Chair – Amelia Harvey, Secretary Responsible for choosing and managing the Bar’s stocks, setting its prices, and composing the budget. Meets twice a term – contact the Secretary for details.
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Treasurer’s Treats Simply present your membership card to take advantage of these exclusive offers. If you would like to suggest a new Treat, or experience issues using any of the discounts listed, please contact Charlie Coverman at treasurer@oxford-union.org. Restaurants to settle in to Ask Italian
Thaikhun No. 1 Ship Street Cinnamon Kitchen Be At One Duke of Monmouth Royal Standard Hanks Bar Victor’s NEW Sojo NEW Opium Den NEW Il Principe NEW Cinnamon Kitchen
25% discount on all purchases (Monday to Thursday) 25% discount on all purchases made before 16:00 (Friday) 10% discount on all purchases 40% on a la carte menu at all times 25% all times. Can’t combine with other offers or set menu Complimentary Kir Royale when dining 10% discount on orders over £20 paid in cash 20% discount (Tue–Fri, 17:00–19:30) 10% discount anytime (15% if over £20, excluding Saturday) 10% discount on food between 1400-1600, Monday-Friday 20% off food 15% discount (after 12:00) 25% off food (Sunday to Thursday only); and £5 signature cocktails at all times (Sunday to Thursday only) 20% discount off food Sun-Thu 15% discount (Mon-Thu) 2 cocktails for £10; 30% discount when dining; £5 cocktails (Sun- Thu) 10 discount (up to £20) 10 discount (up to £20) 20% discount on drinks and pizza 20% discount (Sun- Fri) 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount on their “Take Away Menu” £15 Oxford Union Set Menu (Mon- Wed)
Quick bites for busy days Neds Noodle Box Oxford Sandwich Company Pieminister Salt ‘n’ Sauce Shawa Lebanese Grill Tommi’s Burger Joint West Cornwall Pasty Moshi Modern Art Oxford Benito’s Hat Queen’s Lane Coffee House
15% discount 5% discount 10% discount 20% discount 10% discount 15% discount 20% discount 15% discount (after 15:00) 10% discount 20% discount (Sun- Fri) 10% discount
Cafes and tea bars Tick Tock Cafe Artisan Cafe Fudge Kitchen Happy Cakes iScream Gelateria Opera Cafe Moo-Moo’s Ole & Steen Fantastea Vaults & Garden Café Common Ground Le Pain Quotidien Organic Deli Formosan Barefoot
10% discount 10% discount 5 slices for £17 (or 7 for £22). Fridays 3 for 2. 15% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10%. 10% 20% discount 10% discount (excl. 12:00–14:00), 20% food discount (on weekdays after 14:00) 15% discount 10% discount 15% discount 10% discount 15% off cakes & hot drinks (exc. Mon-Fri, 14:00-18:00)
Bars Duke of Cambridge Angels Oxford Wine Company Raoul’s NEW Love Jericho Bar
Oxford Union Cocktail Menu Hour Prices (sun- Thu) 30% off 10% 30% discount (16:00–20:00) 20% discount
Shops and experiences WHSmith The Fragrance Shop TM Lewin Ultimate Picture Palace Western Computer Group Burrows & Hare
20% discount on books, stationery, cards 10% discount 15% discount 2 for 1 on Tuesday 10% off Mac and 5% off iPad 15% discount
Bamboo Korean Restaurant Café Rouge Carluccio’s Cote Brasserie Fusion House Mamma Mia Pizzeria Sofi de France Taste of China The Alchemist Turl Street Kitchen Dirty Bones
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Competitive Debating The Oxford Union’s competitive debating squad has established itself as one of the most successful in the world – having won the World and European University Championships several times in the past. Over the Easter vacation, the Union successfully hosted Oxford Schools, the largest debating competition in the UK. Throughout term, we offer regular workshops and training squads for all ability levels, from those who have never debated before to more experienced competitors. Our beginners’ workshops are held every Sunday at 19:30 and are open to all. They consist of a 15 to 20-minute workshop run by one of our most experienced debaters, followed by a practice debate with feedback. We encourage everyone to get involved in these sessions. Our Lower Intermediate, Upper Intermediate and Advanced Squads will be continuing as per usual this term – more information can be found on our mailing list. We also send teams to a number of competitions every term. Information on how to apply will be on the weekly announcements sent out on our mailing list. We cover travel expenses for these competitions and have sent teams to places ranging from Texas to Copenhagen. In aiming to expand our public speaking workshop series, we are holding a debating workshop followed by a social on the 26th of May, open to everyone on our mailing list. Further details will be advertised on the mailing list and on Facebook closer to the time.
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To sign up to our mailing list for regular updates on our workshops, competitions and any other events, send a blank email to debate-announce-subscribe@maillist.ox.ac. uk. Please also feel free to join the “Oxford Debaters” group on Facebook. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Chair of the Debate Selection Committee, Lee Chin Wee: cdsc@ oxford-union.org.
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Women’s Public Speaking Workshops We are continuing to hold our women’s public speaking workshop series this term, open to all self-identifying women and non-binary members. These workshops are run by some of our most experienced debaters, who provide in-depth training and feedback sessions. This series is aimed to work on a set of valuable and transferable skills – from constructing clear speeches to making their delivery as effective as possible. This is helpful not only for those interested in competitive debate but also for anyone presenting academic papers or pitching professional ideas.
Above all, these workshops are designed to be casual and accessible to those who may not have any prior experience of public speaking or debating. We look forward to welcoming you – further details will be advertised by email and Facebook closer to the time. Tuesday 7th May (Week 2) – An Introduction to Competitive Debating Monday 20th May (Week 4) – Debate Practice and Feedback If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Member of the Debate Selection Committee, Sara Dube: sara. dube@oxford-union.org.
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Library The beautiful Old Library, well-stocked and spacious, is open to all our members. It is host to some of the world’s most famous Pre-Raphaelite murals, painted by artists such as William Morris and Dante Gabriel Rossetti. The adjoining Poetry Room by the gallery is a true hidden gem, perfect for tucking away with your favourite novel or for quiet independent study. There are a number of other libraries and study spaces the Union offers, from the Goodman Library to the more social Gladstone, Morris and TV Rooms. A suggestions book can be found in the Old Library if you have any comments you would like to make.
If you are interested in becoming involved with the running of the Library please contact Sara Dube at librarian@oxford-union.org about joining the Library Committee, which meets every Monday at 14:15 during term. We are also delighted to announce the introduction of a “Library Lates” series this Trinity Term, which will see longer opening hours for the library every week on Monday – where the Old Library will remain open until 20:00. Old Library term-time opening hours: Monday: 9:30 – 20:00 Tues-Fri: 09:30 – 19:00 Sat: 12:00 – 16:30 Sun: Closed Old Library vacation opening hours: Mon-Fri: 09:30 – 17:00 If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email the Librarian, Sara Dube: librarian@oxford-union.org.
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The Members’ Bar A unique combination of history, comfort, and affordability, defines the Oxford Union Members’ Bar which few places in Oxford can match. A laptop-free zone, it is ideal for a quiet coffee, light lunch, or evening drink alongside members and guests alike. Patrons of the bar enjoy a selection of high-quality food and beverages at student prices, including a 25% members-only discount. We are delighted to announce that this term there will be no minimum card spend at the Members’ Bar! Decorated with memorabilia from past guests, the Members’ Bar is rich in Union history. You never know which of this term’s guests
will stop by for a drink and discussion during their visit. Join us in the bar on Thursday nights after the Main Debate to enjoy our debate cocktail specials while you wait for the announcement of the result of the vote. We will also be hosting at least two pub quizzes in the Members’ Bar this term, to be held Monday of 2nd Week and Monday of 5th Week starting at 20:00. Our House Manager, Bridget Gaughan, is always happy to hear any questions or suggestions from the members, and can be contacted at housemanager@oxford-union.org.
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The Oxford Union Committee
President Genevieve Athis Christ Church
Librarian Sara Dube St Hugh’s
Treasurer Charlie Coverman Brasenose
Secretary Amelia Harvey Kellogg
President-Elect Brendan McGrath Oriel
Librarian-Elect Mahi Joshi Trinity
Treasurer-Elect Shining Zhao University
CCC Elliot Bromley St Edmund Hall
Standing Committee
Spencer Cohen Ayman D’Souza Christ Church Brasenose
Nikhil Shah Exeter
Beatrice Barr St Peter’s
Adam Wilkinson-Hill Jesus
Kitsu Egerton Regent’s Park
Mohamed Iman Somerville
Secretary’s Committee
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Chengkai Xie Brasenose
Liam Willis Oriel
Celeste McGinley Exeter
Harry Deacon Pembroke
Benjamin Penny St Edmund Hall
Olivia Streeten Balliol
Nils Lovegren Magdalen
Hannah Kidner St Catherine’s
Jeremy Bararia Lady Margaret Hall
Jack Solomon St Peter’s
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Appointed Committee & Staff
Chief of Staff Chaitanya Keydial
Director of Operations Miriam Feldman
Director of Digital Operations Hugh Bellamy
Director of Sponsorship Olivia Leigh
Director of Press Daniil Ukhorskiy
Returning Officer
Stanislas Lalanne
Access Officer Access Officer Women’s Officer International Officer LGBTQIA+ Officer Socio-economic Officer Ethnic Minorities Officer Graduate Officer Temporary Membership Officer Disabilities Officer
Rabii Malik Felicity Graham Varuna Mitra Noorie Abbas Joseph Sisson Mehr Farhan Kamran Ali Priyesh Patel Maxwell Quinn Fletcher Ransberry
Press Officers Logistics Officers Sponsorship Officers Guest Liaison Officers CCS
Arjun Bhardwaj, Sahil Shah, Aastha Tyagi, Julia Willemyns Cameron Bovell, Emily Richards, Robert Chamberlain, Kofo Braithewaite, Tereza Pusca Cansu Uyguroglu, Simon van Teutem, Nicholas Crompton, Laura Lonsdale Francesco Galvanetto, Geneva Roy, Melanie Onovo, Lucia Lamoury, John Glance, James Slater, Jack McClure Beth Chamberlain
Photography Graphic Design
Staff
Bursar Lindsey Warne House Manager Bridget Gaughan Librarian-in-Charge Thomas Corrick Events Manager Joanne Morgan; Angela Eustice Accounts Manager Rob Phillips
Ben Darwent Maria Lambert, www.graphicsbymaria.co.uk
Trustees
Hon. Peter Jay Sean Power, Senior Librarian Stephen Dixon, Senior Treasurer
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THE OXFORD UNION
How To Get Involved Getting Involved Workshops Learn everything you need to know about getting involved with the Union’s committees, appointed positions, and elected roles at these workshops in both 2nd and 4th week. Check our Facebook page nearer the time for details. Participating in Debates Debates usually take place on Thursday evenings and are held in the Chamber. They cover a wide range of topics and are a great opportunity to make your voice heard by challenging speakers. You can participate by giving a speech in the Emergency Debate (starting at 19:45) or a floor speech during the Main Debate (starting at 20:30). For those interested in honing their debating skills, debating workshops are held in the Union every Sunday at 19:30. Ask Questions Our speaker meetings, which are usually held at 17:00 or 20:00, are another opportunity to voice your opinion on topical issues. The Union always has a Q&A after each event so that members can interact more meaningfully with the guest in question. Join A Committee All Union committees are open for all members to attend and observe. If you are interested in becoming a committee member, please email the relevant committee Chair. Run for Election Elections for Officership, the Standing Committee and other positions are held on Friday of 7th week each term. Being on committee gives members the opportunity to
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invite speakers, organise debates, and take responsibility for the overall functioning of the Society. Candidates are required to make a number of speeches, depending on the position for which they are running, and nomination packs can be picked up in the General Office from Wednesday of 5th Week. The deadline for nominations is Friday of 6th Week. For more information, please contact the Returning Officer at ro@oxford-union.org. Apply for an Appointed Position Applications for Michaelmas Term’s appointed positions open towards the end of term. These positions’ allow you to invite speakers and arrange debates, improve access and representation, manage press relations, and fundraise for the Society. For more information, contact Brendan McGrath, the President-Elect, at president-elect@oxford-union.org.
TRINITY 2019
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I N F O R M AT I O N
When I attended my first debate on the 24th November 2016 I was profoundly moved by the discussion surrounding the motion, from both guests and students alike. I have FV to thank for believing it was possible to become part of the running of such a formidable institution. MH – Your friendship and advice has been invaluable, and I am so grateful that you happened to be my next-door neighbour. SJH – I have always been so lucky to have had your support, both as a friend and ally. Thank you to everyone on both Team #IGNITE and Team #EMPOWER for the time you invested in our campaigns, and the confidence you had in me, even in the ‘worst of times.’ SM and CZ – thank you for all the time you took out of your busy lives for me. MW, EM, NH, LL, JG, MHV, XXL, OG, JMB, JM, CF, CG and AS – thank you for putting up with my constant ‘unioning’ and for helping in your different ways throughout. JMJL – Your encouragement, guidance and belief in me has been unwavering and seemingly limitless and without it this journey would have been impossible. The enthusiasm and patience of my family, especially my parents, grandparents and my sister are something I will always be grateful for. None of this would have been possible without my dedicated committee. A special thanks to SD, CC & EB for giving up Easter with their families to spend many late nights in the office with me. Finally, the Union continues to function from term to term because of our incredible Staff – thank you for guiding me throughout the vacation and for the support you give to committee every term.
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Events Subject to Change Without Notice
Debates
Special Events
Sunday
Monday
1
28th April
3
5th 6th 7th 8th
29th April How to Get Involved Workshop : 16:00
Pro-Am of the Year
30th April Women’s Debating Workshop: 19:30
Wed
Cressida 17:30
Congres Frank : 2
Sean Fit 17:00
Pub Quiz : 20:00
5th May
6th May Radhika Jones: 17:00
rd
4th
Tuesday Dr. Craig Wright & Jimmy Nguyen: 20:00
st
2nd
Term Plan
7th May Dr. Ha-Joon Chang: 20:00
Tracy Edwards MBE: 20:00
12th May
19th May Debater’s Social: 19:30
Chris Ro
Kizza Be
13th May
14th May
Afghan Ambassador: 17:00 Women’s Debating Workshop: 19:30 Comedy Night: 20:00
How to Get Involved Workshop: 14:00 Jared Harris: 17:00 Voices from North Korea: 20:00 21st May
Natalia V
Pub Quiz: 20:00
Carles Puigdemont MP: 20:00
Zoë Wan 17:00
20th May
Gender I 20:00
Senator
26th May
27th May Graeme Smith: 17:00
28th May Judge Rinder: 20:00
Billionai
Cody Keenan: 20:00
2nd June
3rd June Pub Quiz: 20:00
9th June
10th June James Carville: 20:00
4th June Nick Robinson: 17:00
Rosanna
Fiona Shaw CBE: 20:00
Philip Pu
11th June Opal Tometi: 17:00 Mmusi Maimane: 20:00
16th June
17th June
18th June
ÂŁ5
nner
Speakers
Socials
dnesday
Thursday
Friday
a Dick CBE QPM:
Toxic Masculinity Debate: 20:30
Judy Murray OBE: 20:00
ssman Barney 20:00
1st May
tzpatrick ONZM:
8th May
obshaw: 17:00
esigye: 20:00
2nd May
Saturday
3rd May
Craig David and Colin Lester: 17:00
PM Mia Mottley QC MP: 17:00
No Platforming Debate: 20:30
Chris Kamara: 20:00
India No Confidence Debate: 20:30
Gin & Jazz Social: 20:00
9th May
15th May
10th May
16th May
Vodianova: 17:00
Morena Baccarin: 17:00
Inequality Panel:
Trump Debate: 20:30
22nd May
17th May
24th May
namaker CBE:
Kristian Nairn: 17:00
James Quincey: 17:00
r Tim Scott: 20:00
Shamima Begum Head-to-Head: 20:30
Tiananmen Anniversary Panel: 20:00
ires Debate: 20:30
30th May Lord Michael Heseltine: 17:00
4th May
11th May
18th May
Arunachalam Muruganantham: 17:00
23rd May
29th May
Other
31st May
25th May Ambassador John R. Bolton: 17:00
1st June
Catwalks & Cocktails Social: 20:00
Centrism Panel: 20:00
5th June
a Arquette: 17:00
6th June
7th June
8th June
13th June
14th June
15th June
20th June
21st June
22nd June
Porn Debate: 20:30
ullman: 20:00
12th June
Billy Joel: 17:00 Union Elections
Ken Starr: 17:00
19th June
“Powerlessness and silence go together� Margaret Atwood