EastEnders Spoilers: Derek’s Dark Past Isn’t Exactly Criminal – Fans Prepare For Hard-Hitting LGBT Storyline

It appears that the mystery of Derek Harkinson has been unearthed and it is not at all what we expected. It was revealed that the man was hiding a criminal record, which lead fans to believe that something sinister was going to be revealed. It was Yolande who sparked the fire as she told Derek to keep his past life hidden or he could lose his current job.

But Derek was not a murderer or a thief, he was convicted for homosexuality. It has only just been 50 years since homosexuality was legalized in the UK and before this date just being gay could result in a criminal sentence. It seems EastEnders is trying to make a statement about LGBT history which is very commendable. But how will they handle this issue?

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Derek was verbally assaulted by Keegan when he shouted “queer” at the man. Johnny Carter saw the confrontation but did nothing despite himself being gay. Derek found Johnny later and confronted him as he thinks that he should have helped him. He said this: “I wish I could give you the first clue about what men like me had to do to make it as easy as it is for young men now.”

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The show is promoting the message that LGBT youth should be aware of the history, which was brutal and be thankful for their current freedom. This topic is not often brought up on television so it is quite controversial for the soap but if done correctly they could spread a valuable message to a wide audience.

With June being pride month and also the anniversary of the legalization of homosexuality in the UK this could be a long and educational story line. Derek’s story is not going to be a comfortable one but it one that should be represented and heard.

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