Satirical Nativity Displays at American Churches Push Back on ICE

Across the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the customary models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a church leader behind one of the installations.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar political displays have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from both religious and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these displays, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary political context draws attention to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s experience as refugees mirrors the real fears and experiences of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement terror.”