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

Throughout the US, Christmas displays have appeared that comment on hardline federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a manger amidst snow. However, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the visible part played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of complaints from various religious and government leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical frame helps bring attention to current government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and realities of many families today, including family separation and the deportation of working family members.

It is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have highlighted issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”