Why is Starr's mother important in The Hate U Give?

Lisa Carter serves as a foil for the white media’s portrayal of people of color and, at times, for her husband, Maverick’s, viewpoint. Throughout the novel, Lisa’s perspective on what is most important is contrasted with his. While Maverick cherishes the importance of remaining in Garden Heights to live out his philosophy on community members changing the culture from within, Lisa places the safety and emotional needs of her children above any sociopolitical reasons for staying in their hometown.
Lisa is the driving force behind the children attending Williamson Prep outside of Garden Heights, only because she believes it is the best thing for her kids. Lisa serves as the emotional center of the family unit, helping reconcile any differences and supporting her children unconditionally.
Lisa is responsible for teaching Starr how to treat others with empathy and understanding, even when they behave in ways that are harmful or unseemly. For example, Lisa explains that just because Khalil’s mother was an addict who often neglected her son because of her disease does not mean she has no place to grieve his death. This, in addition to countless other examples in the book, shows that Lisa is able to see the nuances in people and not dismiss someone as being entirely bad because of his or her mistakes.
This is ultimately what helps Starr come to accept others as they are rather than trying to change them. Starr understands that people are complex and flawed because of Lisa’s example. She also learns how to love and forgive from Lisa, who treats Seven as if he is her son despite him being the product of Maverick’s illicit tryst with a prostitute. Lisa is compassionate and understanding, traits that balance Maverick’s more outspoken philosophical teachings. Together, the Carters are strong parents who ground their children’s upbringing with a balanced perspective in an unstable environment.