It is very good that the human resources ministry is doing orientation workshops for documented migrant workers. Perhaps the ministry would like to share the nature of the orientation? Let us hope that it should not be about migrants having to be grateful that we are giving them wages.

It should also be about their rights to a decent wage and living and freedom from 'undocumented' police harassment and aggression.

Perhaps we should make an appeal to church groups and civil society groups to launch a 'Migrant Sunday' campaign, where there would be cultural performances, food and crafts kiosks, pageants, skids, etc. There could be information kiosks about human interest issues on migrants, self-help leaflets and assistance for those in trouble.

A coalition of civic groups could take turns to organise these events. The frequency of these Migrant Sundays would depend on resources and support. It could be a family-type event and in these small beginnings we can forge better understanding of our diversity and common humanity.

I think church groups elsewhere have formed wonderful community projects around migrants and refugees regardless of their religion.

What we do not need in this country is an extra load of hate. Do we not have migrant workers among us working abroad? Do we ever think of our family and loved ones facing hatred and violence abroad? We need to think about doing the right thing.