Political Christmas Scenes at American Places of Worship Push Back on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits are on display that comment on aggressive federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst 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 plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the building, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard bears a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a time where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” said a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the prominent part taken by religious communities in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from various religious and government leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these displays, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical context helps bring focus to current government agendas. They contend that the family's experience as refugees parallels the real fears and realities of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the removal of working family members.

It is not the first time congregations have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate church, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”