. . . or, could it be that people like Andrew1 are just being bullies, trying to get people who don't share their view(s) fired, or to copy THEIR rituals, or to simply squash their views and the expression of their views?

See, that's the thing about free speech.

Today, it's patriotism that is used as the pretense - to squash expressions of dissent over racial inequality.

Tomorrow?

Attempts to call it "un-patriotic" to protest against sexual assault permissiveness?  (and thereby support De Vos' recent relaxation of college sex assault rules?  Or to ratify Trump's view of the privileges of celebrity?)

Or, attempts to label people "traitors" if they don't want coal powered plants in their neighborhoods?  (in opposition Trump's effort to revert back to coal power?)

OR, attempts to call it treasonous for a Federal Special Prosecutor, and jail the traitor, for having the gall to accuse the President of obstruction of justice?