When folks use the color of skin in arguments, or any identity class, that is a type of ad hominem fallacy.
. . . and you are correct, it is corrosive.
While it is closely related, it is distinct. That is the same as attacking a source you link, without actually reading the material and pointing out why it is invalid or counterfactual to the debate.
You've probably stumbled across people arguing by attacking someone's character instead of their ideas. Maybe you've even been guilty of this yourself.
practicalpie.com
". . .The use of ad hominem fallacies can have a corrosive effect on public and private discourse.
First and foremost, it distracts from the real issues. When someone uses an ad hominem attack, it diverts the conversation away from the subject matter, making it difficult to resolve the actual point of contention. This kind of diversion tactic is not just unproductive; it also fosters an environment where emotional manipulation trumps reason and evidence.
Additionally, ad hominem attacks can damage reputations. The focus shifts from debating ideas to smearing individuals, which can have long-lasting impacts on how people are viewed, both professionally and socially. This is often used in political debates or against a political opponent's argument as a way to create an unfavorable reputation.
In some cases, a direct attack can lead to individuals being hesitant to speak out or share their opinions for fear of personal or abusive ad hominem attack, stifling open debate and the free exchange of ideas. While this may occasionally be properly justified, such attacks are most often just dirty tricks used against the opponent's character in such a way that they feel the need to defend themselves. It's rarely directly relevant to the discussion topic. . . "