The difference is contextual, as with anything. The parent obviously disagrees that the data provided rebuts the article's content (I too disagree, and think it mostly only serves to spur hatred in this particular context, the same way the title of the article does).
This is weak. Yes, these numbers can be (and usually are) used as emotion-targeting propaganda. However, assuming they are true in a reasonably non-cherry-picked context, the prevalence of dishonest usage then does not disqualify them from being used in a useful context, free from hatred. Your post implies otherwise, though (regardless of whether they are or are not being used that way in the particular case of the OP).
Lots of propaganda and hate-bait is true. Context is what matters in those cases. I agree that the parent is making an incorrect implication though, but not for the reason you give.
While that is a common response, it doesn't address the problem or make any specfic claim. Are you saying there is no hate speech? We shouldn't do anything about hate speech? Make a claim here.