Political Nativity Scenes at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that mock hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City place of worship, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with animals and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct message: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a period where we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant in the face of complaints from various diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these displays, presenting the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern political frame draws focus to current administrative priorities. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and realities of many families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working loved ones.

This is not the initial instance congregations have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved commented that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”