In a heartfelt message Federal Minister for Immigration, Alex Hawke MP, has expressed his appreciation for and acknowledged the contribution of Australia’s Hellenes to the multicultural fabric of the country’s society, ahead of the anniversary of Greek Independence Day.
Minister Hawke, who himself is of Greek heritage, is well acquainted with Greece’s history as well as the strength and resilience of its people.
Specifically he wrote:
I join with the more than 400,000 Australians of Greek heritage in celebrating Greece’s victory against the Ottoman Empire and, its achievement of Independence.
Like myself, many Greek Australians have grown up learning the history of the Greek struggle for independence, now two centuries ago. These stories and those of the generations since, are a testament to the resilience and strength of the Greek people and their culture.
Greek Australians have a long and proud tradition of contributing to the success and vibrancy of Australia’s multicultural society. As home to one of the largest Greek communities outside of Greece, Australia’s ties to Greece are deep and strong, as are the ties that unite Greek Australians to their homeland, history and culture across generations.
As you take the time to celebrate today with family and community, I especially wish to extend my thanks for the role that Greek Australians have played in Australia’s resilient and united effort to overcome the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
I extend my best wishes as you celebrate the many achievements of Greece as both the birthplace of democracy and as a modern democratic nation.
Alex Hawke
Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs
