Students can use this thematic thread to glean deeper meaning from other symbols, such as Khalil’s hairbrush, Black Jesus, and officer “One-Fifteen.” These, among others, demonstrate the strength of the African American community in the face of a system that works against them. Perhaps most notable is Tupac Shakur’s concept of “thug life,” which explains the cyclical nature of poverty and names systemic racism as the main culprit. The Hate U Give is rich with literary merit, offering opportunities for students to analyze symbols and motifs. This novel can help facilitate class discussion on these important problems.
Thomas writes about these issues with genuine respect for humanity but without shying away from some harsh truths. The Hate U Give tackles topics like police brutality, gun violence, and the weaponizing of stereotypes (society’s use of stereotypes to justify violence and racism). This text is in direct response to social issues-and their corresponding movements-happening right now.
If you’re looking for a culturally relevant text your students will truly care about, consider adding Angie Thomas’s powerful and critically acclaimed novel The Hate U Give to your syllabus.
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