I think you are seeing this from an Anglo Saxon point of view, and hence your perplexity.
Without the intention of generalizing, I have met many Italians, and they have all been very clear about their opinions with blacks. Openly racist or trying to avoid them at all times.
Total indifference about what they may think or feel.
There are small situations of everyday life that would leave you in shock.
@giorno I think you're the first non-racist Italian I know, and I don't say that we Spaniards are better, but maybe not so honest.