The Hate U Give Discussion

Maverick’s reaction to Chris represents a racialized attitude toward romantic relationships. It’s reflective of a cultural norm that dictates same-race relationships for many different races. As a protective father figure, Maverick is naturally wary of any boy that Starr chooses to date, and the fact that Chris is white further complicates this protectiveness. Maverick’s attitude toward famous women of color who date white men already made Starr nervous about telling her father about her relationship.