Satirical Nativity Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on ICE
Across the US, Christmas displays have appeared that comment on hardline government immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ placed within a crib amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of emergency thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.
Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At a different Windy City church, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a simple statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a period where we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.
Messages Spread Nationwide
These visual protests are extensions of the visible part taken by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.
In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of complaints from both diocesan and government officials.
Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis
According to the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame draws focus to ongoing government priorities. They contend that the family's status as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and experiences of numerous households today, including family separation and the removal of working family members.
It is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
Encountering Pushback and Enduring the Elements
The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”
In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”
