Provocative Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Push Back on ICE

Across the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that comment on aggressive federal immigration policies. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters seeking protection from chemical agents. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City church, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a placard carries a simple statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a time where we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the prominent part played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm despite complaints from various religious and agency officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these displays, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame draws attention to ongoing administrative agendas. They argue that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons parallels the actual anxieties and experiences of many families today, including family separation and the removal of working family members.

It is not the first time congregations have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “find it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”