Provocative Nativity Scenes at American Churches Push Back on ICE

Across the United States, satirical holiday displays are on display that critique aggressive government immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the kind of emergency blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of Mary stands outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by protesters attempting protection from chemical agents. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a placard carries a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the displays.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part taken by religious communities in ongoing protests against immigration enforcement. Similar political exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from various diocesan and agency officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context draws focus to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s experience as refugees mirrors the real fears and experiences of numerous families today, including family separation and the removal of working family members.

This is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Pushback and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find 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 sense, the elements have also impacted one display. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”