York Dialectic Union: Autumn Termcard 2023

the term card

AUTUMN 2023

President’s Welcome

Dear members and non-members alike,

I am immensely privileged and honoured to welcome you all to our Union’s inaugural termcard, Autumn 2023

Autumn is a time for us to reflect on new beginnings, as we welcome a new cohort of students to the University and to the Union. On the topic of new beginnings, the hard work of those around me over the past year has been the life force in the revitalisation of this society They have helped build it back from the ground up - to create an experience that I hope will stick with all those who interact with the Union over the coming term

I must draw attention to the reason why we on the founding committee felt such a vocation to devote so many hours of our free time to building up this Union and Term Card, which can be summed up in one word: dialogue. Over the course of our 2 years of study here at the university, we have felt dialogue on campus has been severely lacking No single platform has been available to engage with a wide variety of speakers and debates. This will change with the advent of the YDU.

The Union aims to be a marketplace of ideas, where those of differing opinions and views can find common ground The realm of current affairs today is one of extreme polarisation, with understanding too often pushed aside in favour of ideology The Union will create an environment for students, academics, and members of the public to challenge and intellectually criticise ideas, so all can reach new understandings.

The YDU is honoured this term to welcome some of the most distinguished guests. From the likes of Jeremy Corbyn to Tom Skinner, we hope to cover all bases - whether your idea of a good night is Revolution or Revs…

I hope to craft a Union that is welcoming and inclusive to all members, and I must thank Jess Griffiths specifically for helping me do so As this is the first term, perhaps not everything will be perfect, however, I am sure that this committee and those to come will take heed of all feedback

Go incredibly well,

Adam Moses President, Autumn 2023

Cameron Bennett, Secretary.

Final year Student of History

& Politics

My name is Cameron and I am the Secretary for the Union this term, a position that I am immensely privileged to hold. As I approach my final year, I am grateful for the opportunity to work closely with the wider committee to enrich the state of dialogue and discussion on campus. I have very high hopes for the term ahead and welcome everyone, regardless of their views and background, to get involved with the Union and its events!

Josef “Pepi” Bräutigam Treasurer.

Final year

Student of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics

Founding the York Dialectic Union started as nothing more than a wild dream. I am proud and happy that this dream has turned into reality.

We hope that the YDU will become an important place in York to hear about and discuss different opinions and a place where people regularly change their minds about various topics. I hope you will be one of those people who want to participate in judgement-free discourse and open conversation.

Everyone is welcome and everyone will be seen, I am excited for every person that will join us for this project.

Jessica Griffiths Vice-President

Hi - I’m Jess! I’m the Vice-President this term, making sure everyone feels heard and included at all our events. I’m really excited for all the fantastic speakers, debates, and socials we’ve got coming up this autumn - see you there!

Final year Student of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics

It is with immense pride and gratitude that I extend a warm welcome to all of you as we unveil the latest termcard of our beloved organisation. As the outgoing president, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we've embarked on together.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire team for their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment. Together, we have rekindled the flame of our organisation's purpose, and I have no doubt that under Adam's capable stewardship, we will continue to shine even brighter. Thank you for your dedication, and I look forward to witnessing the remarkable future that lies ahead.

Final year Student of English Literature

Findlay Milne Strategist, Charity Officer, & ExPresident.

What is the Union?

Born from the ashes of the York Union, the York Dialectic Union emerges as a dynamic debating powerhouse, drawing the campus's brightest intellects into the compelling orbit of discourse.

Prepare to be captivated as we embark on a thrilling journey of intellectual discovery. Our termcard is a treasure trove of captivating events, ranging from riveting debates with influential political leaders to exclusive celebrity interviews and heartwarming charitable initiatives.

At the heart of York's collegiate tapestry, we are more than just an organisation; we are the bridge that unites diverse student voices in an inclusive haven, where dialogues ignite, minds expand, and friendships bloom. Join us as we celebrate the art of debate and the magic of conversation. The York Dialectic Union welcomes you to a world of ideas, connections, and limitless possibilities. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and enlightened.

Unleash your intellectual curiosity and be part of something extraordinary.

DEB

AUTUMN 2023

ATES

Welcome to the most exciting YDU events, our Friday evening Debates.

On the evening of a Debate, the President will put a statement (motion) to the house e.g. “This House Believes this is a nice Term Card”.

Our Union members will then be joined by 2 guest speakers, who will open both the proposition and opposition.

Then, two students will have the opportunity to debate alongside these renowned guest speakers, responding to the opening statements made by each side of the house.

Once all speakers from both sides have laid their case, the debate will open up to the floor, for speeches and questions for our speakers.

And then, when all is said and done, audience members will vote.

This House Believes there

is still a case for a Conservative Government.

The current outlook for the Tories in an election looks bleak. Does Britain’s most successful party at the ballot box still have a mandate to govern?

Oct 6th, 18:30

BS/005

James Clay Student, History & Politics. Production Director at Nouse.

Rachael Maskell MP Labour Member of Parliament for York Inner.

Max Abdulgani Student, Politics & International Relation. Deputy Political Editor at Nouse.

Matthew Smith Deputy Chairman of the North East Young Conservatives.

This House supports the Dissolution of the United Kingdom.

One could argue that we currently live in a rather DisUnited Kingdom. Perhaps its time to move on, and let the 4 nations choose their own paths.

Oct 20th, 18:30

BS/005

Speaker

To be confirmed.

Findlay Milne Student, PPE. Head of strategy for the YDU.

Thomas Dalton Student, PPE. Contributor at Nouse.

Prof Jim Gallagher Director General for Devolution in the Gordon Brown Government. Strategic Adivsor on the 2014 Better Together campaign.

This House Believes there is Value in an Arts Education.

Amid the emphasis on STEM education for solving the problems of the future; does art have a role to play?

STUDENT DEBATE

Nov 3rd, 18:30

BS/005

Speaker To be Confirmed

Henry Howard Student, History.

P r o p o s i t i o n

Speaker To be Confirmed

Speaker To Be Confirmed

Speaker To Be Confirmed

Avvayar De Mel

English Literature Student

This House believes the Church should reflect Modern Values.

Should the Church stand steadfast in tradition, or adapt doctrines to stay in line with modern societal values?

Nov 17th, 18:30

Prof Martyn Percy Academic, Former Dean of Christ Church College Oxford, and Ex-Priest in the Church of England.

Ambrose Joharchi Student, Feminist society treasurer and Quaker

Ed Rowett Trainee Minister at Trinity Church

York

Joshua Smith Student, German & Spanish.

This House would Introduce a Wealth Tax.

In Labour’s ditching of plans to introduce a Wealth Tax, an end to Britain’s “regressive” tax system seems ever further away.

Dec 1st, 18:30

SLB/118

Jeremy Corbyn Ex-Leader of the Labour Party & Independent MP for Islington North

Joe Seddon CEO of Zero Gravity

Christopher Snowdon Head of Lifestyle Economics at the Institute of Economic Affairs.

Cameron Bennett Student, History & Politics.

SPEA

AUTUMN 2023

KERS

A change of pace from the intensity of an evening debate, The Union will also host mid-week speaker’s events.

These events will provide unparalleled access for Union members to hear, interrogate, and learn from those with great personal stories and expertise in unique fields.

Our speakers will give an address, followed by a panel discussion headed by the event Chair. After the Chair has finished with their questions, the audience will then have plenty of time to question the speaker.

The Union is always looking to add to its roster of speakers, so fi you have any ideas of people to bring in, or contacts, please do get involved.

I’m Scouse not English

With

Dr Frank Carlyle.

Dr. Frank Carlyle historian from Liverpool who is also a BBC Merseyside Radio presenter and a retired lecturer of History at the University of Liverpool.

A renowned historian of Liverpool, Dr Carlyle gave HM

The King a tour of St. George’s Hall in 2007, in celebration of Liverpool’s 800th anniversary.

Regional Identity in the British Isles. October 3rd, 18:30.

Manwar Ali (also known as Abu Muntasir) is one of the few scholars in the UK who has been directly involved in jihad.

For around fifteen years he radicalised, recruited, fundraised and fought in Afghanistan, Kashmir and Burma. Now he works with the UK's Home Office and Crown Prosecution Service.

October 10th, 18:30.

WithMuhammad Manwar Ali

“For a long time I was committed to Death”

I was a Jihadi

Boshhhhh.

Tom Skinner With

Thomas Skinner is an English businessman and television personality. He is best known for appearing as a candidate on the fifteenth series of The Apprentice.

Working as a market trader since leaving school at 16, Tom is known for his strong Cockney accent and "bosh" catchphrase, he has gained a cult following on Twitter and Tiktok.

October 24th, 18:30.

Britain’s cry for a new political force.

Time for change. With

William has been the leader of the Social Democrats since early 2018 and was re-elected in March 2020.

Claiming “to seek the good common in the national interest”, the SDP is a political party that combines social conservatism with left-wing economic policy. Such policies include the nationalisation of railways and utilities, increasing the amount of social housing, and pausing immigration into the UK.

November 14th, 18:30.

William Clouston

Everest at 18. With

What its like on top of the world.

Bob Tsang

In May 2022, Bob Tsang became the youngest Hongkonger to reach the summit of Mount Everest, at the age of just 18.

As a part of the Seven Summits challenge (reaching the highest peaks on all of Earth’s continents), Bob has travelled the globe undertaking some of the most demanding tasks any seasoned mountaineer could face.

November 21st, 18:30.

The Kingpin of an ecstasy empire

Banged up abroad. With

Shaun Attwood

Shaun Attwood was at one point Arizona’s largest importer of ecstasy. Being from a small town near Liverpool, hear how his abuse of drugs lead him down a dark path to max security Madison Street Jail.

Following his release and return to the UK, Shaun is now an activist and YouTuber, having amassed over 800k subscribers.

November 28th, 18:15.

Women in Cinema

We will be joined by director, writer and producer Corrina McFarlane, known for Three Miles North of Molkolm (2008) & The Silent Storm (2014).

Corinna will be discussing her path into the film industry from thespian to Cannes and her experience as a filmmaker.

November 28th, 19:30

Corinna McFarlane

How teens talk With

Exploring the Nuances of Adolescent Speech

Prof. Jenny Cheshire

The fascinating world of adolescent speech with renowned sociolinguist, Jenny Cheshire. In this engaging talk, Professor Cheshire will unravel the intricacies of how young people use language to express themselves, connect with their peers, and establish their unique identities.

Adolescence is a time of rapid linguistic development, where language serves as a powerful tool for self-expression, social bonding, and differentiation from older generations. Through her groundbreaking research, Jenny Cheshire has delved deep into the nuances of adolescent speech, shedding light on the linguistic trends that shape this crucial phase of life.

December 12th, 18:30.

EV

AUTUMN 2023

ENTS

A change of pace from the intensity of an evening debate, The Union will also host mid-week speaker’s events.

These events will provide unparalleled access for Union members to hear, interrogate, and learn from those with great personal stories and expertise in unique fields.

The Union is always looking to add to its roster of speakers, so fi you have any ideas of people to bring in, or contacts, please do get involved.

24HR RELAY

Calling all students to participate in an exceptional 24-hour charity relay run, organized on October 27th, because we're about more than just speeches!

Join us on an incredible journey around York's historic walls, dedicated to creating a meaningful impact in our community. This event provides a unique opportunity for students to actively engage in community betterment while enjoying athletic challenges or creating lasting memories with friends. Regardless of your running experience, our student-relay warmly welcomes everyone. Together, let's not only raise essential funds but also amplify awareness for student mental health. Prepare to run, cheer, and stand united in the heart of York, making a substantial difference beyond words!

All proceeds to be donated to Student Minds.

To register your interest, please email Findlay Milne, our Charity officer. fsm516@york.ac.uk

Question List

Question List

‘‘What does Israeli rapprochement with the Gulf Arab states mean for the future of the MENA region?’’

‘‘What does Israeli rapprochement with the Gulf Arab states mean for the future of the MENA region?’’

‘‘Negotiation, reconciliation and the future of the Israeli-Palestinian Peace Process’’

‘‘Negotiation, reconciliation and the future of the Israeli-Palestinian Peace Process’’

“Increasing Chinese involvement in the Middle East – filling an American power vacuum?”

“Increasing Chinese involvement in the Middle East – filling an American power vacuum?”

‘‘Iran: Theocracy, Human Rights and Nuclear Ambitions’’

How

it

‘‘Iran: Theocracy, Human Rights and Nuclear Ambitions’’

Maximum word limit of 2000 words. Essay marked by an expert in Middle Eastern Studies

36

NORTHERN UNION

On Wednesday, November 22nd, members of the York Dialectic Union have been invited for an evening with our counterparts in Durham.

As we all come to the end of our first term of the year, members of the YDU will all be asking themselves, do I spend all day in the library so I can spend all night in Salvos?

Thus, we will have a lighthearted debate in the Durham Union over the motion:

Followed of course by drinks in the Durham Union’s 24 N Bailey Club, after which we will find out for once and for all whether Durham does have the worst nightlife in the country.

Accomodation has been very kindly provided by the Durham Union, accommodating us in the North Bailey Club Bar. More details to be released closer to the time.

“This House would rather have a life than get a First”

President’s Thanks

Like football without Origi, this term without my committee is nothing.

So to all of you brilliant people, who despite your intelligence still thought it better to send emails all evening instead of going down to the beer garden, thank you for your immense sacrifice.

It feels a bit silly writing a thank you before anything has actually begun, so, let's just hope for the best.

Due to the nature of high-profile speaker’s diaries, all arrangements are provisional and subject to last-minute changes.

We hope this doesn't happen too often and that you are understanding if it does.

All of the opinions of the Speakers are their own and do not represent the views of the YDU, its members or the University of York.

YORK dialectic UNION