Satirical Christmas Scenes at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas displays have appeared that critique aggressive government immigration crackdowns. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of emergency blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional display featuring animals and Magi. Instead, a placard carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the prominent role taken by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar political displays have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant in the face of complaints from various diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical context helps bring focus to current government agendas. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the actual anxieties and realities of many households today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of working loved ones.

This is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

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