Satirical Nativity Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that critique hardline federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ lying in a manger out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the building, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent role taken by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have been erected in other states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite complaints from both diocesan and government leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary political context helps bring focus to ongoing government priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and realities of many families today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

It is not the initial instance congregations have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”