"The Hate U Give" has faced bans and challenges in various schools and libraries due to its themes surrounding race, police violence, and social justice. Critics argue that it contains mature content, including strong language and depictions of violence, which some believe are inappropriate for younger audiences. Supporters argue that the book and film address important societal issues and promote necessary conversations about racism and inequality. The controversy often highlights the ongoing debate about censorship and the importance of diverse narratives in education.

In "The Hate U Give," Officer 115 shoots Khalil because he mistakenly believes he is reaching for a weapon during a traffic stop. Khalil, unarmed, is trying to comply and explain the situation, but his movements are misinterpreted by the officer. The shooting underscores themes of racial profiling and police brutality, highlighting the tragic consequences of systemic racism and the fear that young Black individuals face. This event serves as a catalyst for the film's exploration of activism and social justice.

"The Hate U Give" is a fictional story, but it is inspired by real events and issues related to police brutality and racism in America. The novel, written by Angie Thomas, draws on the experiences of various incidents involving unarmed Black individuals being shot by police. While the characters and specific events in the story are not true, the themes and societal issues it addresses reflect the harsh realities faced by many in marginalized communities. The book and film aim to raise awareness and spark conversations about these critical topics.

"The Hate U Give," written by Angie Thomas, follows Starr Carter, a 16-year-old girl who witnesses the police shooting of her best friend, Khalil. The story explores themes of race, identity, and activism as Starr grapples with the aftermath of the incident and the impact it has on her community and family. Torn between her predominantly black neighborhood and her mostly white prep school, Starr finds her voice and navigates the complexities of speaking out against injustice while facing personal and social challenges.