Provocative Nativity Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that comment on hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus lying in a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the church, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City church, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the visible part played by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from both diocesan and government leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these displays, framing the age-old tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame draws attention to current government agendas. They contend that the family's experience as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and experiences of many families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working family members.

It is not the initial instance congregations have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also impacted one scene. At a separate location, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”