Clearly stated and well-put. Those athletes aren't "disrespecting our flag, which is a symbol of our nation, built on defined rights and laws that apply to everyone. Those athletes aren't "disrespecting our military" because their protest has nothing to do with our military forces or their personnel, a large number of whom are persons with black or brown skin. Those athletes aren't disrespecting anyone, period. They are protesting the lack of social and economic inclusion that black people still face, especially the police murder of unarmed, fleeing black men who at the time they were shot at least, weren't committing any capital crime. Several were mere boys with bb guns.

The perception that black lives don't matter in our society is based on widespread experience. "Driving while black" is still the only obvious reason for selective police enforcement of traffic laws commonly scoffed at by white people. A smile and a good morning, officer, are enough to get white people off the hook.