Political Christmas Scenes at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the United States, Christmas exhibits have appeared that critique aggressive federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ lying in a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by protesters seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Windy City place of worship, the customary figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the visible part taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political displays have been erected in multiple states.

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

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For those behind these displays, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical context draws attention to current administrative agendas. They contend that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and experiences of many families today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also affected one display. At another church, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”