Satirical Christmas Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the United States, Christmas exhibits are on display that critique hardline federal immigration policies. These installations retell the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been used by protesters attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Windy City place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a sign bears a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant despite criticism from various diocesan and agency leadership.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these displays, framing the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context draws attention to current government priorities. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and realities of numerous households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”