Provocative Christmas Scenes at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the United States, Christmas exhibits have appeared that comment on aggressive government immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, depicting the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ lying in a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the building, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by protesters attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Windy City church, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard display with animals and wise men. Instead, a sign bears a simple statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the installations.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part taken by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from both religious and agency officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these scenes, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern political context helps bring focus to ongoing government priorities. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the real fears and experiences of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning family members.

This is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”