Satirical Christmas Scenes at US Churches Push Back on ICE

Throughout the United States, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus lying in a manger amidst snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of Mary stands outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago church, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a sign bears a simple statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a time where we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Statements Spread Across the Country

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

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant in the face of complaints from various diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these scenes, framing the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical frame helps bring attention to current administrative agendas. They argue that the family's experience as displaced persons mirrors the real fears and experiences of numerous families today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

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

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it really difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”