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

Across the United States, satirical holiday displays have appeared that mock aggressive government immigration policies. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the kind of emergency blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters attempting protection from chemical agents. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part played by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite complaints from various religious and agency leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these scenes, framing the age-old tale of the nativity within a contemporary political context draws focus to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the family's status as refugees parallels the real fears and experiences of many households today, including family separation and the removal of working loved ones.

It is not the initial instance churches have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “consider 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 elements have also affected one display. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”