Satirical Nativity Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the US, Christmas exhibits are on display that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a manger out in the snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of Mary stands outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring animals and Magi. Instead, a placard carries a simple statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the visible role taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm in the face of complaints from various diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these displays, presenting the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern political frame draws focus to current government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the real anxieties and experiences of many households today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

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

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one display. At another location, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”