"While I appreciate that, I don't think it would be appropriate" - easy
People in positions of authority set these boundaries on a daily basis
I do it on here! "Thanks for asking me to do X, respectfully I will not due to my role in the network"
Telling well-meaning people "no" is basic leadership
They could have worn it without making a big performative gesture. That was their choice and it centered them, not the people for whom they were (allegedly) demonstrating.
Similar, but not. When I was running for our state legislature, I had to negotiate a respectful break with Black leaders in their space.
Meetings of retired educators from PVAMU started with the pledge of allegiance. I stood, but didn't recite. You can respect but opt out. I don't say the pledge.
Aaron himself is deciding where his boundaries are - when the CBC decided to do this, it's Good Actually, but when Black people are saying it's goofy, Aaron gets to decide they're doing it in bad faith. "Listen to Black people" (so long as they are doing what I think is good)