Dear Foxy,

Thank you for your very kind comments.

Lefou13

"... if only someone here or in europe had the balls to stand up and do the same ..."

There is a history to migration to Britain. Britain was a colonial power.

When I was in England some years ago, there were grumblings about certain groups coming into the country. However, these groups had every right. They regarded Britain as their "mother country" and even carried British passports. These groups were colonial subjects of Britain. Perhaps citizens of countries now part of the British Commonwealth feel a similar tie.

This is a product of Britain's previous "glory" - and I suspect the same is occurring in France and elsewhere, who previously ruled colonial subjects. However, I respect the fact that you know Britain’s current immigration and multicultural policies better than I do.

Australia’s multicultural policy spells out that migrants have civic obligations - predominantly loyalty to this country, respect for our system of democracy, our constitution and laws.

As Foxy has stated, newcomers should be educated. Indeed these areas should be taught in all Australian schools - I’m sure many Aussies do not even know our constitution. This would make for an enlightened and informed society for all.

Certainly any leader of a community should know and respect our multicultural policies and speak English. Diplomats from other countries necessarily have to speak English and know our culture when posted here. It is only a matter of degree between diplomats and leaders of different communities. It is ludicrous to expect the latter to be spokepersons for their groups when they are unable to enter into dialogue with, nor understand the mores and expectations of Australian society. This should be a mandatory requirement .

Belly,

One doesn’t have to be of European background to appreciate their (and others’) contribution to Australian society. When I was at boarding school, our janitor had been a foremost lawyer in his country of origin. This made an enormous impression upon me.

Doctors from overseas were not recognised here and had to complete another medical degree in Australia before they could practice (many were unable to because of cost, and ended up in very menial jobs) I recall one incident when a medical lecturer sarcastically asked one of his seemingly “disinterested” students if he was bored. The student responded, no - he had written the medical text.

Ironically, Australian doctors who want recognition in their specialty now have to go overseas to further their studies.

Migrants, especially those highly educated, never complained , worked very hard at jobs with both little reward either financially or to suit their skills, which had often taken years to obtain. They did so, to become Australian citizens.

Belly, I know you weren't having a "shot" at anyone, so please don't feel I am having a "shot" back.

Many people think that post WWII "newcomers" were of one level of education. They weren't - and this has never been fully recognised. However, whatever their background, these migrants were determined, often making huge sacrifices, to start lives anew as true Australian citizens.

Dear Danielle,

I feel as if I know you... Because it's my family you're describing in this last post of yours. It's uncanny. But then I suppose as you pointed out - WWII Displaced People -who came to Australia as my parents did - were not recognised professionally. And yes, they had to work in menial jobs to survive. My father met one of his professors (a top neuro-surgeon in Europe) sweeping floors in a large
Sydney hospital. Dad did not want to embarrass his teacher, so he didn't speak to him.

Memories ...Great Australian Stories one and all!

Dear Foxy,

I found what you related about the neurosurgeon (and your family) ineffably sad; however,
this was the calibre of many post-war people who entered Australia.

These "histories" should be included in Australian history and taught in schools. I don't know if it is ... However, such people contributed to the Australian character in enormous ways. I am sure if children were taught about these post-war migrants, they would have a greater appreciation and pride of what it is to be Australian.

Every Australian owes a debt to people like your family and others. Their experiences in order to become Australian citizens should be acknowledged.