Satirical Nativity Displays at American Churches Push Back on ICE

Across the United States, Christmas displays are on display that comment on hardline government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ lying in a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of emergency blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and Magi. Instead, a sign bears a simple statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” said a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part taken by religious communities in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant in the face of criticism from various religious and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old story of the nativity within a contemporary political context draws focus to ongoing government agendas. They contend that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and realities of many families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the first time churches have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also impacted one scene. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”