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

Across the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that critique hardline federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene featuring animals and Magi. In their place, a sign bears a simple statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“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 senior minister involved with one of the installations.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the prominent role taken by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Comparable political displays have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant in the face of criticism from various religious and government officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these scenes, framing the age-old tale of the nativity within a modern political context draws attention to ongoing government priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and experiences of many households today, including being torn apart and the removal of working family members.

This is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”