Reporting on the foreign national issue here in Durban has become an absolute minefield lately. When feelings run this high, the vitriol is sharp both on the ground and online.
I’ve been called a traitor and told I’m not patriotic, but if anything, the heat has only made me realise how vital our role is right now.
The fact is, journalists have to remain impartial, If we lose our objectivity and start riding the wave of anger, we aren't journalists anymore we're just fueling a fire that is already burning out of control.
Impartiality means we care enough to give the full picture by covering both sides.
That means speaking to foreign nationals who say they're living in fear, while simultaneously reporting on the very real economic frustrations and concerns of South Africans.
I implore you to show grace to those who are covering this story. We are not agents. There is no hidden agenda. We are not captured.