After over two weeks of uncertainty, comic creator RE Burke, also known as Becky Burke, is back in the UK following a harrowing ordeal in the United States. The 28-year-old artist was detained for 19 days after being denied entry into Canada, triggering a wave of public support and concern for her well-being.
Becky, originally from Monmouthshire, began her North American adventure on January 7, 2025. Her journey took her from New York to Portland and eventually to Seattle, where she had planned to stay with a host family in Vancouver, British Columbia. However, Canadian officials denied her entry, leading to a questioning by American immigration officials who believed she had violated her tourist visa conditions.
Describing the distressing circumstances, her father, Paul Burke, shared that before her release on March 18, Becky faced restrictive and distressing treatment. She was reportedly shackled with leg chains, waist chains, and handcuffs—reminiscent of the treatment of notorious characters depicted in films. "She is not Hannibal Lecter," her mother Andrea stated emphatically, reflecting the family's disbelief at the circumstances surrounding Becky’s detainment.
During her time in the Tacoma immigration detention center, Becky faced not only separation from her family but also physical and emotional trauma. "The nightmare is over," Paul Burke told BBC Wales upon their tearful reunion at Heathrow Airport. He further admitted that it would take some time for Becky to recover from this traumatic experience, highlighting how such an ordeal can deeply affect young travelers.
The public's response to Becky’s situation was overwhelming, with a GoFundMe campaign raising over £9000 to assist with her legal fees and return flight, a requisite demanded by US immigration for her release. As of now, the campaign is closed, with surplus funds set to be donated to charities aiding those in similar predicaments, underscoring the community's commitment to addressing injustices faced by detained immigrants.
Becky’s ordeal has sparked conversations around immigration policies and the treatment of individuals in detention centers. The Northwest ICE Processing Center, which housed her, confirmed that any individuals deemed in violation of U.S. immigration law might face such measures. Her case has raised significant public interest, putting the spotlight on humanitarian issues within immigration enforcement. "There are a lot of things we need to address through political channels to make sure this doesn't happen to anyone else," said Paul Burke, pushing for reforms to prevent similar experiences.
Despite the trauma, Becky plans to use her artistic skills to convey her story, expressing an intent to write a graphic novel about her detainment experience. Known for her creativity and artistic endeavors, particularly in the realm of comics, this traumatic chapter might transform into a narrative that resonates with others who have faced detention or exploitation.
While recovering from the ordeal, Becky is relishing simple comforts, such as a restful night sleep without the harsh fluorescent lights of the detention facility and the familiarity of her family home. "She is enjoying some of the home comforts that most of us take for granted," her father reflected, highlighting the emotional impact of her return.
This story has emphasized not only the marked challenges faced by travelers but has also amplified the voices of families impacted by stringent immigration laws. The Burkes’ experience serves as a poignant reminder and calls for a collective reflection on how we treat those seeking a better life. As Becky continues her journey, her narrative will no doubt contribute to a growing discourse regarding immigration and human rights.
As she steps into the next chapter of her life, Becky Burke’s resilience as an artist and her determination to document her experiences reflect hope and authenticity in the face of adversity.
