Satirical Nativity Scenes at US Churches Push Back on ICE

Across the US, Christmas displays are on display that comment on aggressive federal immigration policies. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the infant Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ lying in a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City church, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with animals and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the displays.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible role taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political displays have been erected in multiple 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: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite criticism from various diocesan and government leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these displays, framing the age-old story of the nativity within a modern political context helps bring attention to ongoing government agendas. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the actual anxieties and experiences of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the initial instance churches have employed nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”