Political Christmas Scenes at US Churches Push Back on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas displays have appeared that critique hardline federal immigration enforcement policies. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One powerful display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a direct message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” said a senior minister involved with one of the installations.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible role taken by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite complaints from various religious and government leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a modern political context draws focus to current government agendas. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the real fears and realities of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working family members.

It is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong 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 scene. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”