To answer the OPs question : Yes. Way too many threads center on race. This site and G and O in particular was awesome because it's free of constraint. You can speak freely. Occasionally back then someone may use n****r and it was part of that freedom. Now every other thread is about race and racism. Its mean spirited.
Its likely a reflection of whats happening out in the world
There are some huge divisions in thinking.
Look at europe & whats happening in some of those countries
Even if some stories are Blown out of proportion & the migrant problems exaggerated
Can anyone Really say its Good & Positive Allowing Migrants in That Cannot & Will not
Integrate -- They hate The western World & want to take over & destroy it.
Let Alone the Problems surrounding the behaviour of large Numbers of Blacks.
Its no wonder More & more are become discontent & vocal on here.