President’s Welcome

Welcome to Michaelmas Term at the Durham Union!

Friends old and new, I would like to extend to you my warmest welcome at the Durham Union Society. From those who have made our debate their weekly habit, to those who only briefly brushed shoulders with Dominic Cummings or Mel B, and indeed to those who are about to set foot in our Chamber for the first time, we invite you to join us.

Here you will step into the public forum. You will be a part of a community that seeks to explore and understand the ideas of the world and the people behind them. You will have the time to ponder, chance to challenge and opportunity to engage in the cut and thrust of debates that dominate national discourse. This term, from Britain’s place in history to resolution in Palestine, we hold the lightning rod of public debate.

You will join a thriving community. At the heart of the Bailey you will meet and share pints with many of your like-minded fellows. Debates spill over into a kaleidoscope of ideas, and a passing comment in the Reading Room could—and often does—stumble into friendships that last a lifetime. The social calendar is also decked out for Oktoberfest, Divali, Christmas and more.

This term, from our all-college debate to career workshops that pull you closer to your future, from the meandering scent of Casablanca to Neil Warnock’s backroom antics, the Durham Union lays well open to all of you.

– Jerry Li