When an immigrant group assimilates into a new country, does that automatically mean that they have to give up their ancestral ethnic identity? Put another way, does an immigrant group have to discard their cultural tradition in order to assimilate? That’s the question many in Australia are asking in the wake of riots involving native Whites and immigrant Lebanese groups this past December:

In a few short decades, this country has shifted from a “White Australia” policy to one that supports a growing diversity. But the debate on multiculturalism following the Cronulla riots reveals uncertainty over whether that should require more assimilation or allow freedom within the boundaries of fundamental principles. . . .

Treasurer Peter Costello, who is positioning himself to challenge Prime Minister John Howard, recently criticized a “confused, mushy, misguided multiculturalism” and made reference to the Muslim community in particular. A poll this month showed broad support for the comments. At the same time, nearly two-thirds of the respondents disagreed with Mr. Howard’s assertion in the wake of the Cronulla riots that there was no underlying racism in Australia.

Of course, Australia’s difficulties with how immigrant groups should be integrated into its society is not unique -- several predominantly White, western countries also face the same challenges, including the U.S. As we all know, issues surrounding cultural diversity are at the heart of many of the U.S.’s most vexing social issues.

Each country’s situation and issues may be unique but the larger sociological context remains the same -- where does each society find the balance between establishing a common culture while also respecting diversity.