Political Christmas Scenes at American Churches Push Back on ICE

Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that comment on hardline government immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ placed within a manger out in the snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the kind of emergency thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary stands outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign bears a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that read: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of criticism from both religious and agency leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary political frame helps bring attention to current administrative priorities. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the real fears and experiences of many families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working family members.

It is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also impacted one display. At another location, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”