Calm heads and the spirit of solidarity with our minority communities must prevail over the disorder we have witnessed during the past week.
The scenes of violence, intimidation, racism and Islamophobia have brought shame upon us.
It has seen families living in fear, some contemplating leaving altogether, and homes, businesses and property damaged or destroyed.
Anti-immigration protests and counter rallies are expected in Belfast and Derry over the weekend.
Yesterday we witnessed a display of unity in the Assembly, which was recalled to discuss the disgraceful scenes on our streets.
In a joint statement, Executive ministers hit out at the racist troublemakers.
They added: “It is important that we recognise the significant and positive contribution of minority ethnic people within our health service, economic, public, political, social and cultural life.
“Everyone who lives here deserves to be part of, and benefit from, a fair and inclusive society where everyone is made to feel safe and welcome.”
This rejection of racism from our politicians is welcome.
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Whether it is heeded by the thugs perpetrating the violence is another thing.
What society needs now is for the hatemongers planning further disorder to take a step back and consider the far-reaching consequences of their actions.
We have already seen people involved in the disorder appear before the courts.
One of those remanded into custody in Belfast over the rioting is just 15.
Some of the rioters in England have been handed lengthy prison terms.
Across the UK, so far almost 500 individuals have been arrested and 140 charged.
Police have stated these figures will increase “significantly”.
Those contemplating becoming involved in disorder need to understand their actions could have serious long-term implications.
Aside from time spent behind bars, their ability to travel and get a decent job in the future could be impacted.
Then there is the sad fact that, through attacking businesses and innocent people, they are destroying their own communities.
We suffered more than our fair share of violence and trauma during 30 years of the Troubles.
We have come too far since those days to let racist hatred damage our society any further.