Political Nativity Scenes at US Places of Worship Push Back on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the classic nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of thin, foil blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been used by protesters attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City church, the customary models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring animals and wise men. In their place, a placard bears a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the installations.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the prominent part taken by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from various diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political frame draws focus to current government priorities. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the real fears and experiences of numerous households today, including being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning family members.

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

Encountering Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate location, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”