Correct. Because his (Ortiz) frame of reference is that of a "foreigner", meaning he's not from the South, (assume) he does not have Southern heritage. Further, much of why the Southern men who fought under the flag, fought because the Union armies were on their lands. It's the same principle as the US trying to dictate how people living in the Middle East (or anywhere outside of the US) should live their lives. They don't "hate us because we are free", many of them hate us because we are there.
As Professor Shelby Foote said, the Northern or the Southern soldier didn't give a damn about slavery. The Southerns thought they were fighting the Second American Revolution and because these foreign soldiers were on their land, and the Northern soldiers were fighting because they thought they were preserving the Union.
Teresa, maybe I did make my point clear. If, being polically correct, we banish the flag, how will kids coming up even see it and ask "what's that?"? You would miss an opportunity to share what we were as a nation and how we have progressed and we are much further along in recognizing that "people are people". If we allow that flag to only be co-opted by white supremacists it is not truthful historically.
But removing any and all things that make someone "uncomfortable" further removes an opportunity to discuss, learn, and grow closer. Political correctness pushes individuals further apart. At my core, I seek peace and understanding with others, but I enjoy and understand how vigorous, respectful debate can further bring that about.
Free speech is diametrically opposed to political correctness. I will always fight for free speech. And I am officially done with this topic....