Political Christmas Displays at American Churches Push Back on ICE

Throughout the United States, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by protesters seeking protection from chemical agents. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City church, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a direct message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible role taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant in the face of complaints from both diocesan and government officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context helps bring attention to ongoing government priorities. They contend that the family's experience as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and realities of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working loved ones.

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

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a physical sense, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”