Political Christmas Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas displays are on display that critique aggressive federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of emergency blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by protesters attempting protection from chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the usual figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with animals and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

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

Statements Echo Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible role played by religious communities in ongoing protests against immigration enforcement. Similar political displays have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of complaints from both religious and government officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these displays, framing the age-old tale of the nativity within a modern political context draws attention to current administrative agendas. They contend that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and realities of many households today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of working family members.

This is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At another church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”