Satirical Christmas Displays at American Churches Push Back on ICE

Throughout the United States, Christmas exhibits have appeared that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

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

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with animals and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Statements Spread Across the Country

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

In one New England state, a parish removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from both religious and government officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, presenting the age-old story of the nativity within a modern political context draws attention to current government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and realities of numerous families today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working loved ones.

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

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “find it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”