Satirical Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Push Back on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits are on display that critique hardline government immigration policies. These scenes retell the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of Mary stands just outside the building, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City place of worship, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene with camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the displays.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible role taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant in the face of complaints from both diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For those behind these scenes, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a modern political context helps bring focus to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the real fears and realities of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the removal of working loved ones.

It is not the initial instance congregations have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one scene. At a separate church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”