Political Nativity Displays at US Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that critique hardline federal immigration crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and Magi. In their place, a placard bears a simple statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

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

Statements Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by religious communities in ongoing protests against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a handmade notice that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from both religious and government officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these scenes, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical frame draws attention to current administrative agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees parallels the actual fears and realities of numerous families today, encompassing family separation and the removal of working loved ones.

This is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”