Provocative Nativity Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that comment on hardline government immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a church leader behind one of the installations.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the visible role played by religious communities in ongoing protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable political exhibits have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant in the face of criticism from both religious and agency officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a modern political frame draws attention to current government priorities. They argue that the family's status as refugees parallels the actual fears and realities of many families today, including being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also impacted one scene. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”