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

Across the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the classic Christmas story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ lying in a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists attempting protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City church, the customary figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign bears a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a church leader behind one of the displays.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part played by religious communities in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant in the face of criticism from various diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

For those behind these displays, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context draws focus to ongoing administrative agendas. They contend that the family's experience as refugees parallels the actual fears and realities of many households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of working loved ones.

This is not the initial instance congregations have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “find it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also impacted one scene. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”