As to your racism -
Bigotry and racism share many similarities. I mean structurally of course. Like, I can hate an Arab or Muslim for similar reasons, but not superficial ones. Like an Arab can be secular, etc. - but I can apply a sweeping generalization about all Arabs being Muslim and then being fanatic Muslims.
Or go straight for demonizing non-extremist Muslims, and demonizing Islam in and of itself.
Our conception of Islam is through the lens of the Arab world. That is the image of Islam that is so pervasive in our political and popular culture. Just look at studies of popular film in the US.
More to the point though, I believe you've referred to 'them' as savages and barbarians. This only serves to contradicts your 'new and improved' bullshit argument, further. Your history of ignorant and bigoted statements on Islam and Arabs, that is.