In the U.S., a Welsh graphic novelist detained at the Canadian border as an “Undocumented Migrant”

On February 28, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained Welsh graphic novelist Becky Burke at the Canada–U.S. border, classifying her as an “undocumented migrant.” American writer, literary critic, and translator Jennifer Croft reported the news and shared a message from Becky Burke’s father, urging people to spread the story to help his daughter.

According to her father, Paul Burke, Becky was traveling as a tourist. On February 26, she attempted to cross into Canada to continue her journey. However, due to an error in her visa documents, she was denied entry. When she tried to return to the U.S., ICE refused her re-entry and classified her as an “undocumented migrant.” She has now been in detention for over 10 days.

“What was meant to be a life-changing, four-month backpacking trip across North America has turned into a nightmare,” said Paul Burke.

He also stated that Becky is being held at a detention center in Tacoma, Washington, with no clear timeline for her release. He noted that she has very limited access to phone calls, as all her belongings were confiscated. Family visits are allowed only through glass.

“Becky’s current conditions are deeply concerning. She is sharing a cell, surviving on a diet of cold rice, potatoes and beans (she is vegan),” added her father.

At this point, Burke has reached out to the British consulate in London and San Francisco.

Becky Burke is a graphic novelist published by the British publishing house Book Island. You can explore her work at this link.

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Copy editing: Joy Tataryn