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

Across the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that critique hardline federal immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City place of worship, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene featuring animals and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a simple statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a period where we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar political exhibits have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite criticism from both diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these displays, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame helps bring focus to current administrative priorities. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and experiences of many families today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working family members.

It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “find it very challenging 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 affected one display. At another location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”