Provocative Christmas Scenes at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that mock hardline federal immigration enforcement policies. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of emergency blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the building, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Windy City church, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with animals and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” said a church leader behind one of the displays.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible role played by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a church took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm despite criticism from various religious and agency leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern political frame helps bring attention to ongoing administrative priorities. They contend that the family's status as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and experiences of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working family members.

It is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

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

In a physical way, the weather have also impacted one display. At another location, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”