FRESHERS’ GUIDE 2016
WELCOME
The Oxford Union is unlike any other place on earth. Nowhere else will you find a line-up of such distinguished speakers, compelling debates, and vibrant social events. Our members have the opportunity to engage with leaders in virtually every field; from politics and business to sport and fashion. We host events on an almost daily basis so that there is always something for members to enjoy. As a member, you will be able to confront the world’s most prominent people on pressing and controversial issues during our individual speaker addresses and our weekly debates. The Union also serves as a vibrant social hub, and puts on a number of social events. This includes the Union ball, one of the most impressive yet inexpensive in Oxford. Furthermore, the in-house
bar, snooker room, and TV area ensure members are not confined to the social bubble that is their college, but have access to a wider community. Our beautiful library, historic reading rooms, and extensive archival collections afford a scholarly and comfortable working environment, cherished all the more by members during exam season! These reasons lie at the heart of our claim to be the world’s best student society. This guide provides a detailed introduction to all the opportunities the Union offers its members. Over and above benefiting from our facilities and events, joining the Oxford Union means having the right to witness and participate in the free exchange of ideas at an extraordinary place. Crucially, this Guide tells you how to join.
HISTORY
EARLY DAYS The Oxford Union has its place in history. It was founded in 1823 as a forum for open debate, challenging certain norms imposed by the restrictive University authorities. It soon became the only place for students collectively to discuss political topics. W.E. Gladstone – later to become one of the most eminent British Prime Ministers, serving no fewer
than four times – was one of the leading figures of the Union’s early years. Gladstone was President of the Union in 1830, shortly before entering the House of Commons. To this day, the Union continues to champion its founding principles of free speech and open debate. Uniquely, it is still run entirely by a democratically elected body of students.
ALUMNI The Union boasts dozens of former members who have been active in its affairs while at Oxford and then gone on to become internationally renowned figures. Five former British Prime Ministers (Gladstone, Salisbury, Asquith, Macmillan, and Heath) and several foreign political leaders including Benazir Bhutto, Pakistan’s first female Prime Minister, have served as Officers of the Union. Numerous high profile figures across the political
spectrum have held positions in the Union, including: Boris Johnson, Tony Benn, Michael Heseltine, Michael Foot, Anne Widdecombe, Michael Gove and William Hague, to name but a few. Our alumni have regularly gone on to succeed in fields outside of politics, such as literature and broadcasting. Dennis Potter, Robin Day, Jeffrey Archer, and Tariq Ali were all involved in running the Society.
SPEAKERS POLITICS A key aspect of the Union is hosting leading political figures from around the world. Senator Robert Kennedy’s visit in the 1960s blazed a trail for America’s political heavyweights. In subsequent years, the Union hosted Presidents Nixon, Carter, and Reagan. Indeed, it was at the Oxford Union that President Nixon first publicly apologised for the Watergate scandal. This tradition has continued to this day, most recently with Secretary of State John Kerry outlining his take on the trials and tribulations facing humanity over the coming century. No other student organisation allows its members to confront directly some of the globe’s foremost powerbrokers. While still banned from appearing on television, Gerry Adams proposed the reunification of Ireland at the Union, Colonel Gaddafi argued for a new African Union via a live video
stream linked to our chamber, and more recently, Marine Le Pen was asked incisive questions by our members regarding the accusations of xenophobia levelled at her party. To ensure fair and rigorous debate, the Union aims to host speakers from across the geopolitical spectrum, and always provides an opportunity during events for our members to challenge the speaker. However, it is not all about controversy, and politicians of the highest calibre have spoken on a variety of contemporary issues: Tony Benn, Jeremy Corbyn, Nigel Farage, David Miliband, Prime Ministers David Cameron, Theresa May and Sir John Major, Pakistan’s President Pervez Musharaff, Afghanistan’s President Hamid Karzai, and Australian Prime Ministers John Howard and Kevin Rudd are some such examples.
RELIGION We have hosted prominent religious figures such as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, the Dalai Lama, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Chief Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. Our debates often concern the most pressing
issues surrounding religion. Topics such as the existence of God, the relationship (if any) between religion and extremism, and the interplay between faith and politics have preoccupied our chamber in recent terms.
SPEAKERS
SCIENCE Along with the political leaders, come those from the world of science. Albert Einstein’s 1933 visit set a precedent for a great tradition of scientific figures visiting the Union, while recent terms have boasted: Richard
Dawkins, Buzz Aldrin, John Ellis, Lord Robert Winston, Dame Jane Goodall, Simon Singh and Baroness Greenfield. Often these talks are followed by book signings, and therefore an opportunity to meet the speaker.
BUSINESS In addition to regular debates on business-related topics such as the viability of socialism, and the morality of Wall Street, we host a number of world business leaders. From tech billionaires Jack Dorsey, Peter Thiel, and
Eric Schmidt to television business moguls Deborah Meaden, Theo Paphitis, James Caan and Lord Alan Sugar, the array of entrepreneurial talent we host is unparalleled by any student society.
ARTS & JOUNALISM During his recent visit to the Union, Stephen Fry delivered an Oscar Wilde-infused account of his own life, eliciting tears of laughter from a captivated audience. Imperilled author Salman Rushdie, late great architect Dame Zaha Hadid and literary legend Phillip Pullman have all given equally enthralling talks. From journalism, we have been joined by such luminaries as Sir Michael Parkinson, Jon
Snow, Nick Robinson, Andrew Neil, David Aaronovitch, and former editor in chief of the Observer, Will Hutton. In one of the more outlandish spectacles of recent times, members were treated to a livestream of actor turned performance artist Shia LaBeouf’s 24 hour sojourn in an Oxford elevator as part of his groundbreaking #ELEVATE piece.
SPEAKERS MUSIC In 2001, Michael Jackson chose the Union to make his first public speech in over a decade, whilst this time last year Sir Elton John flew in to discuss Putin, gay rights and his stellar career in front of a packed out chamber. In recent times A$AP Rocky, Tom Odell, Marina Diamandis,
Akala, Mark Ronson and Shakira have all spoken. Indeed, our members are often treated to intimate concerts: Hozier, Emeli Sande, Nicola Benedetti, James Blunt, KT Tunstall, Ne-Yo, and Snow Patrol each delivered intimate performances in the chamber when they visited.
FILM AND ENTERTAINMENT From veteran thespians to Hollywood’s giants, when it comes to esteemed actors the Union’s record is remarkable. We have heard from Morgan Freeman, Johnny Depp, Dame Judi Dench, Sir Michael Gambon, Emma Watson, Mark Hamill, Natalie Portman, Zach Braff and many more. However, this is not just an opportunity to ask about their latest blockbuster: in one of the
most riveting talks to date, Sir Ian McKellen described, with a dramatic presence of which only a Shakespearean stage actor of his calibre would be capable, his lifelong support for the gay rights movement in the United Kingdom, whilst Vanessa Redgrave affirmed her impassioned support for refugees worldwide, in light of recent events.
SPORT In one of the more comical controversies of recent times, our chamber has borne witness to FIFA President Sepp Blatter impersonating Cristiano Ronaldo, inspiring an online frenzy and a reaction from the player himself. Along with footballing royalty such as Diego Maradona, Edwin van der Sar
and Sir Geoff Hurst the Union has hosted Rugby World Cup Winners Lawrence Dallaglio and Will Greenwood, cricket superstars Brian Lara, Imran Khan and Andrew Strauss, boxing legends Vitali Klitschko and George Foreman as well as Wimbledon king, Boris Becker.
DEBATES
VOTE WITH YOUR FEET The Oxford Union was founded upon the principles of debate and free speech, and since then it has been part of some of the biggest and most important discussions that have shaped world history. From the debate of February 1933 which saw the chamber declare, by an overwhelming majority, that it would in no circumstances fight for king and country, to that of December 1964 in which Malcolm X delivered his famous speech on extremism in defence of liberty, it has always been at the forefront of international politics and global affairs. Debating remains at the very core of what we do, and our Thursday night show debates, held every week during term time, are a testament to this. In recent debates, Nick Clegg clashed with Nigel Farage on the subject of EU membership, Mehdi Hassan described why Islam is a religion of peace, and Angela Davis argued that extremism in defence of liberty is no vice to mark the fiftieth anniversary of Malcolm X’s
visit to the Union. During every debate, our members are given a chance to have their say. Not only can students speak alongside guest speakers, but members of the audience can challenge points that have been made when the debate is opened up to the floor; the outcome of many a debate has been swung by an impassioned student speech. Results are determined by how many students walk out of the door marked ‘Ayes’, and the door marked ‘Noes’, in much the same way as at the House of Commons. Each of our main debates is preceded by an ‘emergency debate’ – a smaller scale, student only affair about a particularly current topic. This provides an opportunity for our members to hone their debating skills and speak their mind in a more relaxed environment than the following main debate. Many seasoned Union debaters and contributors first took to the floor during an emergency debate.
DEBATES
DEBATES WITH IMPACT Debates at the Oxford Union have left their mark on the world. The outcomes reached and powerful words spoken resonate beyond the University. In 1933, the Union passed its famous motion, “This House will in no circumstances fight for its King and Country”, causing a maelstrom of political and public ire; indeed, Winston Churchill called it, “that abject, squalid, shameless avowal.” In 1975, the passage of the motion, “This House would say Yes to Europe” with 493 ayes
to 92 noes reportedly had a considerable influence on the national referendum concerning the UK’s membership of the EEC, given that the debate was held and televised only a few days before the referendum. To this day, the Union remains the principal forum for national and international debate. Though public figures regard an invitation to speak at the Union as an honour, they are expected to defend their views on equal terms with any member who cares to challenge them.
THE ART OF DEBATING Beyond these Thursday night debates, the Union holds weekly debating workshops. Whether you want to just brush up on your public speaking skills or compete at international level, there is a suitable programme for you. With the world’s best debaters as coaches, the transformation from novice to competition winner is fast. Indeed, the Union’s debating
teams compete at the highest level. Multiple Oxford debating teams have won at the European and World University Debating championships, and at many inter-varsity competitions within the United Kingdom and abroard. All travel expenses for debaters are covered by the Union – an additional incentive to get involved!
T H E
O X F O R D
U N I O N
DOT'S FUNK ODYSSEY
CHEESE & WINE
UV TABLE TENNIS
DISCO STU
MISSING BEAN
LIVE CEILIDH
LIVE JAZZ (OUJO)
VODKA LUGE
VAULTS & GARDEN
SILENT DISCO
SPARKLING RECEPTION
SOURZ BAR
4th November 2016 (Friday of 4th Week) 8:30pm ‘til late ∙ Black Tie Members: £60 Guests: £70
P R O U D LY
P R E S E N T S
M I C H A E L M A S
B A L L
Contact Mark Fischel: secretary@oxford-union.org Tickets available through the FIXR app from Friday of 1st Week
SOCIAL EVENTS
THE UNION BALL The Union Ball is one of the most affordable yet impressive events in Oxford. At recent balls our chamber has played host to the largest silent disco in Oxford, the courtyard has boasted a vodka luge sculpted as the Eiffel Tower
and our members have been transported to a magical chocolate wonderland. If dancing and drinking are not your thing, tasty food and live performances guarantee nights you do not want to miss.
TERMLY SOCIALS In addition to the Ball, the Union puts on a number of additional socials during term. Our garden parties, frequent pub quizzes, and black tie events mark the Union as one of
the most socially vibrant spaces in Oxford. These events are inexpensive despite the food, drink, and live music on offer.
THE PURPLE TURTLE Located in the cellars of the Union, the Purple Turtle (the ‘PT’) is the most central and also one of the cheapest student
clubs in Oxford. It is open every day of the week, and free to all members of the Oxford Union.
LIBRARY
STUDY IN BEAUTY Originally the Society’s debating chamber, the Union Library boasts an impressive collection in a breathtaking environment. The murals adorning its walls were painted by none other than William Morris and Dante Gabriel Rossetti, and retain the stunning vibrancy typical of Pre-Raphaelite art. The Library’s shelves are stocked with works across all academic disciplines, providing a convenient solution when college and faculty libraries have been stripped of popular texts. This additional supply of academic resources located in the centre of town is invaluable. The Union Library also has a range of non-academic resources, distinguishing it from University institutions. Magazines, travel guides,
newspapers, and contemporary fiction are found in abundance. There is also a diverse selection of DVDs available to members, including classics, new releases, and the best of international cinema. Open Wi-Fi alongside a collection of comfortable armchairs and individually lit desks, contribute to an environment conducive to both study and casual page turning. The Library is run and kept up to date by a committee open to all members. Stock suggestions are responded to very quickly meaning that while the beauty of the space remains constant, the collection is continually renovated. The Union Library is undoubtedly one of the most useful and spectacular spaces in Oxford.
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FRESHER GUIDE
FACILITIES THE BAR Few places in Central Oxford are classy and affordable – the Members’ Bar is both. Perfect for a quiet coffee, a light lunch, or an evening drink, members can enjoy high quality food and beverages at student prices. Our lunchtime menu has recently been updated, boasting a delicious selection of homemade options. Much like a
hall of fame, the Members’ Bar is decorated with memorabilia from past guests. You never know who you might meet in the Members’ Bar, and current speakers often share a drink with members when addressing the Society. A place to meet friends and celebrities, the Members’ Bar is truly unique.
Opening hours Term Time Mon – Wed
10:00am until 12:00am
Thurs – Sat
10:00am until 2:00am
Sunday
1:00pm until 10:30pm
GARDENS Located just outside the bar, the Union gardens provide a calm place to relax in the centre of bustling Oxford. Whether you
are enjoying a hot chocolate in the winter or a cool drink come summer, the Union gardens are a welcome space year round.
SNOOKER ROOM The Union boasts the only full size snooker tables in Oxford, open all day. The
perfect place to unwind with friends after grabbing a drink from the Members’ Bar.
MEMBERSHIP
WHY DOES IT COST? The Oxford Union receives no financial support from the government and is independent of the University. Therefore, the funds raised from membership
fees cover all our running costs. The Union is not a corporation and is run by democratically elected members
WHAT DOES IT COST? If you join by the end of Freshers’ Fortnight – Thursday 20th October – you are entitled to our discounted fee of £229 (10% off); membership can also be paid in monthly inslalments. On top off this, you will also
get a £10 bar voucher, 5GB of free Dropbox space and free DVD rental. Though this may seem expensive it works out at only £25 per term for a three-year course and £19 per term for a four-year course.
FINANCIAL ALTERNATIVES The Union’s Access Scheme offers a very significant discount for those eligible for a full maintenance loan. With the open period discount this costs £137. The full cost of joining after Freshers’ Fortnight is £152 and can also be paid in instalments. There are also a number of price options for various groups such as
Brookes’ students and visiting students. There is also an Educational Affiliation available to University Members. To request an Access Scheme Form, or to enquire further about our alternative membership options, please email enquiries@oxford-union.org or call 01865241353.
MEMBERSHIP
WHAT IF EVENTS ARE OVERSUBSCRIBED? For the overwhelming majority of events you will not have to queue for more than 30 minutes. We operate on a first-come first-served basis. For the few events which we anticipate to be heavily oversubscribed,we will release some tickets in advance for collection at the General
Office (details will always be publicised by email) and provide live queue updates via social media. We recently received planning permission to build another fire exit, which, when completed, will almost double the capacity of the chamber.
WHO JOINS? Most freshers join the Union when they arrive at Oxford, and certainly before the end of the Freshers’ Fortnight (Thursday 20th October). There is no stereotypical Union
member – it is a democratic and meritocratic organisation. Your background and political views are not a concern when you join, nor if you wish to run for election to the committee
HOW TO JOIN There are three ways to do this; firstly, online at www.oxford-union.org/joining. Secondly, you can complete the enclosed form and post it back to us with payment and a
passport photo and then it will be waiting for you to collect in the General Office. Thirdly, you can come into the Union’s General Office and complete your membership there.
Contacts: 01865 241 353 enquiries@oxford-union.org www.oxford-union.org
f T Y
Social Media: /theoxfordunion @oxfordunion OxfordUnion @theoxfordunion