It&#x27;s not just about race. I am an average white guy, and I&#x27;d still find it hard not to talk to the police. The police has guns, and more importantly, has the state behind them. So I&#x27;m intimidated by default (and it&#x27;s partially how it&#x27;s supposed to be - the police is supposed to commend respect). Refusing to answer a politely asked question feels like an escalation (and will likely be received as such). I&#x27;m a law-abiding citizen, we should be &quot;in it together&quot;, me answering their questions should help us both in ensuring bad people get caught and good people stay safe. It&#x27;s a very unhealthy situation if cooperating with police by default is seen as dangerous.