We are (nearly) all migrants in this beautiful, free land, and we have prospered from the determination and perseverance of our parents. Their lives and stories have shaped who we are and have shaped the country we all call home.

Despite all of the challenges of being a "New Australian" dad felt welcome here and was proud of the life that he created.

My grandparents and father spoke Latvian with each other when we visited, but, to our lasting regret, dad never spoke his native language in our home, because he wanted us first and foremost to be Australian.

No matter what our origins, our history as the children of migrants, who may have even fought on opposing sides in WW2, we can come together here in Australia, recognise and value both our similarities and our differences, and build a safe, inclusive and nurturing community for all.