Satirical Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the US, Christmas displays are on display that critique aggressive government immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard display with animals and Magi. In their place, a placard carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the visible part played by religious communities in ongoing protests against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from both diocesan and government officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary political frame helps bring focus to current administrative agendas. They argue that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the real fears and realities of many families today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the first time congregations have used nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, installations have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “find it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also impacted one display. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”