So we should ban anything that was created during the era of slavery because that era "represents" slavery?
Not saying I agree with it, just explaining his point of view why it can be viewed as offensive.
There is obviously a difference between a flag that “everyone” agrees represents America and it’s ideals (the argument is exactly which ones it represents) and some unrelated item that happened to be invented then. (As an aside, many Jews do boycott items that are identifiable as German due to the country’s past indiscretions)
Also, it’s not banning, Nike (a private company) is making a decision that’s (mostly) motivated by profit and brand image.