Political Christmas Scenes at American Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of emergency blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists seeking protection from chemical agents. 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 Chicago church, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

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

Statements Echo Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm despite complaints from various religious and government leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these displays, framing the age-old tale of the nativity within a modern political context helps bring focus to current government agendas. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the real anxieties and experiences of many families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one scene. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”