Australian multiculturalism is a strong stream with many tributaries

Ideally, groups should be open-minded enough to go further and not only promote their particular traditions but be sufficiently confident in the validity of their story to acknowledge others'.

Hence the candelabra alongside the Christmas tree at that school. Hence the multiplicity of faith events that NSW Parliament House regularly hosts, from Iftar dinners during the month of Ramadan to a Hanukkah celebration two weeks ago.

But absorption of the host nation's value system becomes difficult if people immigrate to this country physically yet remain ensconced - even trapped - emotionally and psychologically in their country of origin via a self-perpetuating cocoon that takes the form of email, Whatsapp, FaceTime and cable television.

The inevitable result is a clash of expectations and values, and intolerance of diversity. So some institutions make allowances by misguidedly cancelling nativity plays and substituting "Happy holidays" for "Merry Christmas".

Former Commonwealth chief rabbi Jonathan Sacks wrote in The Dignity of Difference that "universalism is an inadequate response to tribalism and no less dangerous. It leads to the belief - superficially compelling, but quite false - that there is only one truth about the essentials of the human condition and it holds true for all people at all times." In heaven there is truth, he wrote; on earth there are many truths.

Whether it's about respect for our national anthem or respect for difference, we cast aside liberal democratic values - and the right to positively embrace our distinctive traditions - at our peril. It's a slippery slope.

It's Hanukkah this week, it's Christmas later this month; let whoever wishes to acknowledge and celebrate these and other festivals be encouraged do so. Proudly.