Provocative Christmas Scenes at US Churches Push Back on ICE
Throughout the US, satirical holiday displays are on display that mock aggressive federal immigration crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the traditional nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston
One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus lying in a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.
Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the church, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At another Chicago church, the customary figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“The holiday season is a time where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the installations.
Messages Spread Nationwide
These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have been erected in other states.
In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite criticism from both religious and government officials.
Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
For the creators of these displays, presenting the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical frame draws focus to ongoing administrative priorities. They contend that the family's status as refugees parallels the real fears and experiences of many households today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.
This is not the first time congregations have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, installations have highlighted issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.
Encountering Criticism and Enduring the Elements
The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the actual message 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 repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”