Racist people do and say racist shit. Perpetrators of racism tell the same or similar jokes.

I think this is helping me articulate why the 'ironic racist' jokes make me feel so uncomfortable: there is barely - if any - difference between that type of joke and an actual racist statement. In that way it seems really inconsiderate, and like it could make someone really uncomfortable.

After reading the replies to this thread, I'm also feeling more emotionally sensitized to the reality that those sorts of jokes - in the presence of a black person or other racial minority - would both make light of and remind the listener of very real hate and oppression towards them.

Notice how I said 'would,' because I have never heard those jokes made in the presence of a black person.

I've been sort of eviscerated by everyone in this thread, which sucks, but I feel like I've learned something and I'm going to change how I do things going forward in regards to this problem.

Thank you to everyone again for your time and responses.