Provocative Christmas Scenes at American Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the US, Christmas displays have appeared that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been used by activists seeking protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago church, the customary models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with animals and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part played by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Similar political displays have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly remained firm despite complaints from both diocesan and government leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these displays, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical context 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, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the first time congregations have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the weather have also impacted one scene. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”