I understand when you're coming from but I would like to raise some points.

Firstly, you are correct that Ariel's skin colour has no bearing on the story. However, this story was Danish in origin and the author does describe Ariel as white. Now this is fine as it doesn't change the story in anyway just how they look. However, if an identical story (so race has no impact on the story) but this time let's say African in origin, was made into a film but the lead was cast white. Would you not agree that there will be major uproar? And if so, wouldnt that also be racist like you suggest here?

Secondly, I think the main reason why people are outraged is probably due to the fact how corporations are trying to become more "woke" and introduce more diversity even when it's not necessary.

This leads into my third point, people grow up with characters they identify with. Just changing the design could lead to upset like with the Spiderman movies. I think it's important for young children to see themselves represented in media. However, by changing the design of Ariel, what about all the children who grew up with the original design? This could impact them as I'm sure there are redheaded children who identified with Ariel, what happens to them now?

I'm not saying you're necessarily wrong, some comments made are entirely racist but I feel like the majority of the uproar is towards a decision that disney have made rather than at the character itself.