Political Nativity Displays at US Churches Push Back on ICE

Across the US, satirical holiday displays are on display that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of emergency thermal blankets often distributed to detainees and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of Mary stands outside the building, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City church, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part taken by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant in the face of complaints from various religious and agency leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these displays, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a modern political context draws focus to current administrative agendas. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the actual anxieties and realities of many households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of working family members.

This is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, installations have highlighted issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved commented that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one display. At another location, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”