Satirical Nativity Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the United States, satirical holiday displays have appeared that critique hardline government immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the doll is covered by the kind of emergency thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists seeking protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in tactical vests 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 conspicuously absent from the standard display with camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a placard bears a simple statement: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a church leader behind one of the installations.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant in the face of criticism from both religious and government officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a modern political frame helps bring focus to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and realities of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one display. At another location, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”