Grahamstown is a city marred with divisions: along language, racial, cultural, economic and geographic lines. Geographically, Grahamstown is isolated from other nearby towns. Despite having a rich cultural Xhosa and English history, the city itself still bears the scars of Apartheid, with the township seeming to be a separate entity to the main city. This physical division also marks the separation between races, languages, cultures and classes. There is a huge disparity between rich and poor as can be seen in the stark contrast between the condition of private and township schools. Even within the township itself, there is a division between the ‘coloured’ and ‘black’ communities. Furthermore, there is the clear division between Grahamstown and Rhodes University. Thanks to the university and many private schools, there is also a very large student population.
Because the city is home to such a diverse body of people, it is especially important for reporting to be as balanced as possible. However, it must be remembered that objectivity is an ideal, not an absolute goal that should be perused to the point of turning rich stories into mechanical reports. Journalists have the opportunity to inform and educate, as well as question and challenge and therefore should not sacrifice creativity in an attempt to be completely objective. Although different angles or approaches to stories is seen as a form of bias, journalists should not be afraid to take a clear stance on something they are reporting. It is impossible to be wholly objective, as our job also demands subjectivity: simply deciding who is interviewed, and what facts are included or not, is creating bias.
Important social debates, such as political and public finance issues including the water situation and the health and education systems, should be addressed. Stories can unite and inform the community, creating understanding and helping bring people from different ‘divisions’ together. Talking about relevant issues, such as the poverty in the township can encourage the community to take action and make a difference. Positive reporting, such as cultural activities, is also important and encourages people to be aware of the good going on within their community. News coverage also provides an opportunity to create a link between local government and the public.. As journalists have access to more information than the average citizen, sometimes a clear stance on an issue must be taken, such as with a story concerning municipal mismanagement and lack of service delivery.
