Satirical Christmas Displays at US Churches Push Back on ICE

Throughout the United States, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of emergency blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary stands outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by protesters seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the installations.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible role played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from both diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary political context draws focus to current government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees parallels the actual fears and experiences of many households today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

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

Encountering Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement actions.”