Provocative Nativity Scenes at US Places of Worship Push Back on ICE
Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that mock hardline government immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the newborn Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.
A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One striking display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ lying in a crib out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.
Nearby, the statue of Mary stands just outside the church, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At another Chicago church, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a direct message: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”
“The holiday season is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.
Messages Echo Across the Country
These visual protests are extensions of the prominent part taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.
In one New England state, a parish removed the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm in the face of complaints from both religious and government officials.
Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis
For the creators of these displays, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary political context draws attention to ongoing administrative priorities. They contend that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and realities of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.
It is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.
Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms
The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”
In a physical way, the elements have also impacted one display. At another location, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”
