@Leez Said
The fact that they have are open to at least listen to one person, are not disrespetful, violent, abusive and have the willingness to do something better for themselve and for the society, I would say it's the more likely the fear of being treated badly as it has been the case in history.
I have to point out that they are not natives. They immigrated from a different country. Cultural differences and beliefs are also a barrier.
Colleagues of similar skin tone as me would disagree to a degree and are of opinion that it's a prejudice. However, I think it is necessary to broaden the definition of racism beyond prejudice to include sentiments that in their consequence, if not in the intent, support the racial status. Racism extends considerably beyond prejudice, so I believe it's right for anyone to argue on that subject.
I know it's semantics, and arguing semantics is like arguing opinions (
Your opinion is wrong!)
Here's my view:
Prejudice is when you see someone and think "Oh he's probably ...."
But you don't avoid interaction because of it, and when you interact you realize you are (maybe) wrong. (However, activities that support stereotypes tend to enforce prejudices)
Racist is when you take (or don't take) specific action against someone simply based on race/look/religion/etc.
Bigotry, I guess, would come in when you actively promote your prejudices against a group of people by definition - not a specific person. The Westboro Church comes to mind.
Yes, these are all squishy, at-the-moment generalized definitions that could change for a specific circumstance.
And with those - I would admit that because of the environment I grew up in, I have some latent prejudices. I know they are wrong and I don't let them interfere with decisions or actions, and I certainly do not promote anything of the sort.
... though there are stereotypical stories that come up that continue to support some prejudices ...