Provocative Christmas Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on ICE
Across the United States, satirical holiday displays have appeared that critique hardline federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations retell the classic Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.
A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One powerful installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus lying in a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.
Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At another Chicago church, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a placard bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“The holiday season is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.
Statements Echo Nationwide
These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.
In Massachusetts, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm in the face of criticism from various diocesan and agency officials.
Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue
According to the creators of these displays, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context helps bring attention to current administrative priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the real anxieties and experiences of many households today, including family separation and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.
This is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.
Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements
The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”
In a literal way, the weather have also affected one scene. At another church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”