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

Throughout the United States, satirical holiday displays are on display that critique aggressive government immigration policies. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the infant Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One striking installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, equipped with a respirator. This item has been adopted by protesters seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a placard bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the installations.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite criticism from both diocesan and agency officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old tale of the nativity within a contemporary political frame helps bring attention to ongoing government agendas. They contend that the family's status as refugees mirrors the actual fears and experiences of numerous families today, including family separation and the removal of working family members.

This is not the initial instance congregations have employed nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one display. At another location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”