All great points in this post. At some time in the future, we as a nation, need a thorough clarification about the terms racism, bigotry, and prejudice. They are not the same things. We often dilute the power (sometimes intentionally) of words.

We overlook the power dynamics of racism by confusing it with other terms in other situations. I often remind people that racism isn't about hate, its about power and control over the "other". The hate comes later when those "others" without power seek to achieve it.