Provocative Christmas Displays at US Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the United States, Christmas displays are on display that critique hardline government immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the building, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists attempting protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago church, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a placard bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

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

Statements Spread Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the prominent part taken by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from both religious and government officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these displays, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a modern political context draws attention to ongoing administrative agendas. They contend that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and realities of numerous households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of working loved ones.

It is not the first time congregations have employed nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”