Keep in mind if you've been the victim of racial profiling time and time again, one may become unglued when challenged in their own home.
But, coming unglued and escalating the race question is indeed counterproductive.
Gates should have invited the officers in for coffee, discussed in a civil tone any awkwardness he experienced, and then shook hands with the officers, thanking them for responding to the complaint, and finally availing himself to speak to the department about race. That's how we teach ... that's how we lead.
Unfortunately, everyone's not as smart and polished as me.