As usual I really like your logic and hadn't looked at the issue in just that way.   I still disagree.   

When you see the flag you believe those ideals, for the most part they have been true in your own life.    The flag does not represent the Reality for many black citizens.  Neither you or I can experience that, but we can acknowledge that racism exist.*

Honestly the meaning of the flag isn't as important as the visibility that an NFL game gives to those who want to be heard.   The fact that they are risking punishment, will sort out the level of commitment these men(black and white) have. 

*I doubt the protestors ever considered the 'meaning' of the flag one way or the other. 

If there is any doubt about the existence of racial discrimination I probably will not go there.  If the last year hasn't convinced a person that racism is common in the nation, then I'm only going to be angry or frustrated.  I do not want that to be the case with you LFS.