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

Across the US, Christmas displays have appeared that comment on aggressive government immigration crackdowns. These scenes retell the classic Christmas story, depicting the infant Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of emergency blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by protesters seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City place of worship, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with animals and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a time where we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the prominent role taken by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm despite criticism from both diocesan and government leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these displays, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context draws attention to ongoing administrative priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and experiences of many households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”