Political Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that critique hardline federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One striking installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ lying in a manger out in the snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often distributed to detainees and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of Mary stands just outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City church, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible role played by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant in the face of criticism from various diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these displays, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame draws focus to current government agendas. They argue that the family's experience as refugees parallels the real fears and experiences of numerous households today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working family members.

It is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate location, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”