Political Christmas Displays at US Churches Push Back on ICE
Across the United States, satirical holiday displays have appeared that comment on hardline government immigration crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the actions of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb
One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus lying in a crib out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.
Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the building, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At a different Windy City church, the customary figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with animals and Magi. Instead, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“The holiday season is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the displays.
Messages Spread Nationwide
These visual protests reflect the prominent role taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar political exhibits have been erected in other states.
In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm despite complaints from both diocesan and government leadership.
Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue
According to the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame draws focus to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and realities of numerous households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of working loved ones.
It is not the initial instance congregations have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, installations have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.
Encountering Criticism and Weathering the Elements
The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”
In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”
