Provocative Christmas Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that mock hardline federal immigration crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with animals and wise men. In their place, a sign carries a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the prominent role played by faith leaders in ongoing protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable political displays have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm in the face of complaints from various religious and agency leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these scenes, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical context draws focus to ongoing government priorities. They contend that the family's status as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and realities of numerous households today, including being torn apart and the removal of working loved ones.

This is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved commented that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also affected one scene. At another location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”