My favourite shanty is Johnny Come Down To Hilo, and I fail to find anything *racist* in it. As far as I know, it was composed by negroes, and was certainly sung by negroes. To alter the words of this, or any other song to something more politically correct does those fellows a grave disservice IMHO.
On the other hand, I'm not sure as I would feel comfortable singing those songs at a Black Panther OR a KKK gathering. Come to think of it, I wouldn't feel comfortable doing ANYTHING at such gatherings.
I think I'll just stick to folkie meets!!!