Racist rhetoric aims at diffusing grassroots efforts for justice. Ultimate "bigotry " and "raciest" policies are used by the liberals freely instead of addressing issues. It is so much easier to kill the conversation before it starts. At this point, the liberals do not have to defend their positions. It is an old ploy, and has been shown to work in the past.
I know what "racist" looks like. I was raised in small town Texas. I knew Klu Klux Klan members. It is not subtle. It has more to do with a large ego than a true feeling of disliking someone for their skin color. These racist need to feel superior to someone, and they want power over that group. Sound familiar? This racist attitude is carried out in abusive family situations, churches, town governments, businesses, schools...Just about any where there is a population. I think that is why it is so easy to get people to feel guilty when the word "racist" is uttered....everyone is guilty of some kind of racism at some point.
But that rhetoric should not shut down logical discourse over differing opinion on public policy. If your policy is good, the debate will only strengthen your position. If your policy is bad, you have to look for another way to implement it....such as a diversion ploy. Enter "racism" card.