Satirical Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Push Back on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that critique aggressive government immigration crackdowns. These installations reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City church, the usual figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a simple statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part played by religious communities in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church 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 stood defiant in the face of criticism from various religious and government leadership.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these displays, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern political context helps bring focus to current government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the actual fears and realities of many households today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At another location, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”