Political Christmas Scenes at American Places of Worship Push Back on ICE
Across the United States, satirical holiday displays are on display that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb
One powerful installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil blankets often given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.
Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been used by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Windy City place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional display with animals and wise men. In their place, a sign carries a simple statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“Christmas is a time where we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the displays.
Statements Echo Nationwide
These visual protests reflect the prominent part taken by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.
In one New England state, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from both religious and government officials.
Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis
According to the creators of these displays, framing the age-old tale of the nativity within a modern political context draws focus to current administrative agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the actual anxieties and experiences of numerous households today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.
It is not the initial instance congregations have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.
Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms
The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”
In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one display. At another location, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement terror.”