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

Across the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that comment on aggressive federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One powerful display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ lying in a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City place of worship, the usual figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with animals and Magi. Instead, a placard carries a direct message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the prominent role played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political displays have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from various diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

For those behind these displays, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical frame draws focus to ongoing administrative agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons parallels the actual anxieties and realities of many households today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

This is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “find it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also impacted one scene. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”