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About Harvard Political Union

General Information

  • Committee chair: Shankar Ramaswamy

  • Staff Contact: Christian Flynn

  • Committee meeting time and place: Events take place on a biweekly basis, typically in the evening. Most discussions and debates are in one of the undergraduate house common rooms.
  • Description: The Harvard Political Union is the premier organization for student discussion and debate on controversial political, social, and campus issues. Through a combination of informal dinner discussions, panel events, and formal debates, HPU provides students with a unique opportunity to share their opinions and hear the opinions of others on a number of controversial issues. Examples of events held over the last year include discussions and debates on affirmative action, immigration policies, health care reform, religion at Harvard, race relations on campus, U.S. torture policy, and the legalization of marijuana.

Involvement

What opportunities exist for individuals interested in the Harvard Political Union?

  • Attend events -Our discussions offer meaningful opportunities to engage in productive and heated debate with peers. Join us as we tackle a number of hot-button issues – typically over pizza.
  • Join the HPU Leadership Team - Become more involved with the planning and organization of HPU events. This involves helping to coordinate with the different student groups on campus relevant to a particular issue, as well as helping to iron out the specific topics to discuss at a given event.