York Dialectic Union

The York Dialectic Union, previously known as the York Union, is a society that brings speakers and debates to the University of York. Founded in 2013 (and then re-founded in 2023) the Union is affiliated with the University of York Students' Union. It hosts speakers and debates, as well as social events for its members.

History
The Union grew out of Nouse Events, affiliated to Nouse, which was founded by students in 2012. At this time, debates and talks were not attended by a wide range of students. A separate organisation was created with a purpose of publicising and hosting events. This led to the founding of an independent society, the York Union, in 2013.

The Union was affected by COVID-19. Due to safety restrictions, attendance and popularity decreased, with events coming to an end in 2022. Following the pandemic, the idea of resurrecting the Union proved popular among students, and so it was reaffiliated with YUSU for Autumn Term 2023.

Events
The Union were able to secure Jeremy Corbyn for a debate about wealth tax in December 2023. The event was hosted in the Piazza Building's lecture theatre, with tickets selling out within days of sales opening.