Political Nativity Displays at American Churches Push Back on ICE

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes retell the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City church, the customary models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and Magi. Instead, a placard carries a simple statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the installations.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political displays have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite complaints from various diocesan and government leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For those behind these scenes, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame helps bring focus to ongoing government agendas. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and experiences of many households today, including family separation and the removal of working family members.

It is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “find it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”