Political Nativity Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that mock hardline government immigration crackdowns. These installations reimagine the traditional Christmas story, depicting the newborn Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One striking display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the kind of emergency blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters seeking to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago church, the usual figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional display with animals and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible part taken by faith leaders in ongoing protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite complaints from both religious and agency leadership.

Linking 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 current administrative agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and realities of many families today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of working loved ones.

It is not the initial instance churches have used nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, installations have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also impacted one display. At another location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”