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

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that comment on hardline government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes retell the classic nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of emergency blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display with animals and wise men. In their place, a sign bears a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period where 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 Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the visible part played by religious communities in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar political displays have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant in the face of complaints from both diocesan and government officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context draws attention to ongoing government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees parallels the actual fears and realities of many families today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of working family members.

It is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, installations have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “find it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate church, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”