The problem is different interpretations of the word "racist". If "racist" is used meaning anything which differentiates on the basis of race, that's one thing. If it means anything which an empowered group uses to demean or belittle an unempowered group on the basis of race, that's something more finely nuanced and obviously far different. Most of the "racial" disagreements I see here on GC seem to hinge on these two different designations. I'm not weighing in on it ("where angels fear to tread . . .") other than to point out that in order to discuss it you may wish to define your terms.
Just to be technical about it - here it is from Webster's - (I find it interesting that they only date it to 1933)
Main Entry: rac·ism

Pronunciation: \ˈrā-ˌsi-zəm
also -ˌshi-\ Function:
noun Date: 1933 1
: a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race 2
: racial prejudice or discrimination
— rac·ist

\-sist
also -shist\
noun or adjective