Provocative Christmas Displays at US Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration crackdowns. These installations retell the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part played by faith leaders in ongoing protests against immigration enforcement. Similar political exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that read: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite complaints from various diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these displays, presenting the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical frame draws focus to current administrative agendas. They contend that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and experiences of numerous families today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of working family members.

This is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement terror.”