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

Across the United States, Christmas exhibits have appeared that critique aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the kind of emergency blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of Mary stands outside the church, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a placard bears a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent role played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in other states.

In one New England state, a church took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a handmade sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from both religious and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political frame helps bring focus to ongoing government priorities. They argue that the family's experience as refugees parallels the real fears and realities of numerous households today, including family separation and the removal of breadwinning family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also affected one scene. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”