Political Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the US, Christmas exhibits are on display that mock hardline government immigration crackdowns. These scenes retell the classic nativity story, portraying the infant Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of thin, foil blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a placard bears a direct message: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the prominent role played by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious displays 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 handmade sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite criticism from both religious and government leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these displays, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern political frame helps bring focus to current government priorities. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and experiences of many families today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the first time churches have used nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”