The Hon Alex Hawke MP, Minister For Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services And Multicultural Affairs
Message For Birth Of Guru Nanak
I send my warmest regards to all Australians joining with so many around the world in celebrating the birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism.
Throughout his life, Guru Nanak taught the importance of equality, compassion, kindness and respect towards others – values that are central to our successful and cohesive Australian society, particularly as we continue to persevere through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
At this time of celebration, I reflect on Australia’s diversity of cultures, experiences, beliefs and traditions. As the home of more than 300 different ancestries, celebrations such as this and the message that Sikhism conveys, contributes to the vibrancy and success of our diverse nation.
I commend the Sikh Australian community for your dedicated work in keeping our community safe throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and thank you for your ongoing compassion and community service. As restrictions ease across the country, I look forward to seeing many reconnecting with loved ones, made easier by the Morrison Government’s recent decision to recognise parents as immediate family for the purposes of international travel.
I wish you and your families happiness as you celebrate the birth of Guru Nanak.
ALEX HAWKE