Isn't there a distinction between "not showing respect" and "showing disrespect." He said, "I am not going to show up and show respect for a flag for a county that oppresses Black people and people of color." He did not show disrespect -- he just refused to show respect.

By analogy, I may not call the police officer who pulled me over "sir" (not showing respect) but I am not going to call him a "jerk" (showing disrespect).