Provocative Christmas Scenes at US Churches Push Back on ICE

Throughout the United States, satirical holiday displays are on display that mock aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the traditional Christmas story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of emergency blankets often given to detainees and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by protesters seeking to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago church, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a sign bears a direct message: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a church leader behind one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part taken by religious communities in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar political displays have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm in the face of complaints from both diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these scenes, framing the age-old story of the nativity within a contemporary political frame draws focus to ongoing administrative agendas. They contend that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and experiences of numerous households today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate location, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”