Political Nativity Scenes at American Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the United States, Christmas exhibits have appeared that critique aggressive federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, depicting the infant Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ placed within a manger out in the snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City place of worship, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional display featuring animals and Magi. Instead, a placard bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the prominent role played by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that read: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm despite complaints from various diocesan and agency leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For those behind these displays, framing the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context draws focus to current government agendas. They contend that the family's experience as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and experiences of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

It is not the initial instance congregations have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have highlighted topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

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