President’s Welcome

Welcome to Easter Term at the Durham Union!

Spring has broken, and with it, another term is upon us. We’re kicking off an incredible lineup with the Speaker of the House of Commons, followed by leading legal experts such as Lucy Rigby, the sitting Solicitor General of England and Wales, and master quizzer Shaun Wallace. We have some outstanding names this term, and we can’t wait to see as many returning members as possible.

We will be hosting four debates, beginning with ‘This House Believes That Without God All Is Permissible’ — a deep dive into one of the most fascinating theological issues, featuring some of the sharpest minds in the field. We’ve curated a varied schedule, with upcoming debates on the monarchy, ecology, and history — there truly is something for everyone this term.

They say trouble comes in threes: our Garden of Eden Summer Ball, Garden Party, and infamous boat parties are not to be missed! Member welfare has been at the heart of my vision for this term. To help de-stress during exam season, we’ll be hosting a puppy therapy session before exams and a paint and sip event once they’re over. Plus, we’re launching welfare drop-in sessions to support you throughout this busy time.

The Durham Union is proud to call the North East home — a region that has given us all so much during our time here. It’s now our turn to give back. We’ll be raising money for the County Durham Food Bank with our annual 24-hour debate — this time with even more motions and an open bar. Come along, take the floor, and debate for a great cause.

The Robson Cup is back — Union style. Whether you’re a seasoned debater or new to the game, this is your chance to get involved, sharpen your skills, and compete for the best performance prize.

The Durham Union is a community like no other, and it has given me so much during my time at Durham. It has been a privilege to plan this term and give something back. I hope you all have an amazing term. And for those, like myself, who are graduating — let’s see out our time here in style. We’ll be finishing with a full sixteen-college bar crawl: be there, or be square!

– Reece Short