Satirical Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE
Throughout the US, Christmas displays have appeared that comment on hardline federal immigration crackdowns. These installations reimagine the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.
A Stark Interpretation in Evanston
One striking display at a church in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ lying in a crib amidst snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the kind of emergency blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with zip-ties.
Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters attempting to guard against tear gas. 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 a different Chicago place of worship, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with animals and Magi. Instead, a sign bears a simple message: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”
“The holiday season is a period where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the displays.
Messages Echo Nationwide
These artistic statements reflect the visible part played by religious communities in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.
In one New England state, a church took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm in the face of complaints from various religious and government leadership.
Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue
According to the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical context helps bring attention to current administrative priorities. They contend that the family's status as refugees parallels the real fears and experiences of many households today, including family separation and the deportation of working loved ones.
It is not the first time congregations have employed nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.
Encountering Pushback and Enduring the Elements
The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”
In a physical way, the weather have also impacted one display. At another location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”
