I see quite a few different ideas here and very good too.
I think of racism as just ignorant, mean people who need something to hate. If it wasn't one person or group whom they consider 'different', it would be another. People like that can't be cured; they are mean in their souls.
I think the best way to deal with it is for the nicer class of people to set the example of accepting others as individuals and on equal terms. Ranting about it and trying to stamp racism out with laws only makes the mean racists more mean and more racist.
Equal treatment means treating all people according to how they conduct themselves. A rude boorish person or a criminal can't be excused because he might be a minority. If he is white, black or anywhere in between, we should hold him accountable. Anti-hate laws too often let minorities off the hook when they misbehave. When that happens, it gives a boost to racism. The mean people will say, 'see, didn't I tell you THOSE PEOPLE are no good'!
There will always be racism to some degree. There are few people of any race who have not been subject to discrimination at some time for some reason. I have found that the best way to deal with discriminatory actions is to walk away from it, go elsewhere for what you are seeking. There are more good people out there than bad and walking away from the bad ones puts you on a higher plane and gains you respect.