Political Christmas Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits are on display that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One striking installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been used by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and Magi. Instead, a placard carries a direct message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister involved with one of the installations.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the visible role taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In one New England state, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite complaints from various diocesan and agency officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these displays, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame helps bring focus to current government agendas. They argue that the family's status as refugees parallels the actual anxieties and realities of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

It is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”