I never thought that as a rainbow nation we could inflict such hardship, misery and pain on African brothers, sisters and their children.

I never thought that as a rainbow nation we could inflict such hardship, misery and pain on African brothers, sisters and their children.

I never thought we could stoop so low as to threaten the welfare of those who weren't as blessed as we are to be born in South Africa.

As I witnessed the unbelievable barbarism within our borders over the past few weeks, I am forced to ask myself: "Where is the New South Africa? Where is our ubuntu? Have we reduced one of the most progressive and insightful constitutions in the world to nothing but toilet paper?

Now is the time to turn things around and to recommit to the values and traditions that so many sacrificed their lives for.

Now is the time for all of us to become Good Samaritans and lend a hand in whatever form to our fellow Africans.

Yes, some have given money and time and charity in all forms and, yes, not all have the time or the will to give as much, but the least you can do is speak out and say that xenophobia is wrong, that silent diplomacy does nothing for us.

We are now on a long road to restoring our dignity and image. Please don't let us slide backwards. Let us prove once again that we truly are the rainbow nation.

John Moodey, DA Gauteng