Political Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that critique aggressive federal immigration policies. These installations retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by protesters seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in body armor 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 conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard bears a direct statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a church leader behind one of the displays.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the visible part played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.

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

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these displays, framing the age-old story of the nativity within a contemporary political context helps bring attention to current government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and realities of numerous families today, including family separation and the deportation of working family members.

It is not the initial instance churches have used nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”