British Cartoonist R.E. Burke Detained by ICE: A Call for Justice

British cartoonist R.E. (Becky) Burke, known for her satirical works, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since February 26, 2025. What was meant to be a four-month backpacking trip across North America turned into a legal ordeal when she was denied entry into Canada and subsequently refused re-entry into the United States.

What Happened?

Burke, a 28-year-old artist from the UK, attempted to cross into Canada as part of her journey. However, Canadian authorities reportedly suspected she might work illegally and denied her entry. When she returned to the U.S., she was taken into ICE custody in Tacoma, Washington, on the grounds of a visa violation.

According to reports, Burke was interrogated for hours as officials attempted to determine whether her activities in the U.S. constituted “work.” Despite her insistence that she had not been paid for any artistic endeavors during her trip, she was deemed in violation of her visa terms.

Harsh Detention Conditions

Burke has described the conditions inside the detention center as dire. She is housed in an overcrowded facility, where basic necessities are scarce. In a message relayed by her family, she described the daily struggles:

🛏️ “I wear the same jumper for a week. They’re short or out of stuff, like blankets and extra clothes. I have one towel.”

🥶 “They wake us up at 6:30 am. There is never enough time to sleep. It’s so cold.”

🍽️ “The food is barely edible—cold rice, potatoes, and beans.” (Burke is vegan, making meal options even more limited.)

Family and friends are scrambling to support her. An American friend has been sending funds to her inmate account so she can buy tea and milk, but the process has been slow and frustrating.

Family’s Plea for Help

Burke’s father, Paul Burke, has launched an urgent appeal to bring his daughter home. In a heartfelt Facebook post, he described the situation as a “nightmare” and urged supporters to spread the word.

🔹 The family has reached out to their local MP, who has contacted David Lammy’s office.

🔹 The British Consulate in London and San Francisco have been informed.

🔹 Legal avenues are being explored, but progress has been slow.

A Growing Pattern of Immigration Crackdowns

Burke’s case is not an isolated incident. Over the past few years, immigration policies have become increasingly strict, and even tourists with minor visa misunderstandings have faced severe consequences. The rise in detentions under ICE policies has drawn criticism from human rights organizations, who argue that non-criminal detainees should not be subjected to such harsh treatment.

How You Can Help

The Burke family is urging people to share Becky’s story widely and to connect them with legal experts or advocacy groups that might assist in securing her release. Public pressure has been effective in past cases, and social media activism could play a key role in helping Becky return home.

📢 Share this article. Spread awareness using hashtags like #FreeBeckyBurke and #çon social media.

📩 Contact your representatives. If you are in the UK, reach out to MPs or government officials who can escalate the case.

💰 Support legal aid. If legal costs arise, donations may be needed to support Becky’s case.

The fight for Becky’s freedom is far from over, but with collective action, justice can prevail.