Political Nativity Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the United States, Christmas displays are on display that mock hardline federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One striking display at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring animals and Magi. In their place, a placard bears a direct message: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from various religious and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these displays, presenting the age-old story of the nativity within a contemporary political frame draws focus to ongoing administrative priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and realities of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the removal of working family members.

This is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, installations have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “find it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one scene. At another location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”