Satirical Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the church, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City place of worship, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. In their place, a sign bears a simple statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the visible part taken by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite criticism from both diocesan and agency officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern political frame helps bring focus to ongoing administrative agendas. They argue that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and realities of many families today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of working loved ones.

This is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also impacted one scene. At another location, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement actions.”