Provocative Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Push Back on ICE

Across the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that critique hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of emergency blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago church, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with animals and wise men. In their place, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the prominent role taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm despite complaints from various diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political frame helps bring focus to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the real fears and experiences of numerous families today, including family separation and the deportation of working loved ones.

This is not the first time congregations have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”