Satirical Christmas Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on ICE
Throughout the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that comment on hardline government immigration crackdowns. These installations retell the classic nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.
A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One powerful installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.
Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of ancient 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 nowhere to be seen from the traditional display featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a period where we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.
Messages Echo Nationwide
These artistic statements reflect the prominent part taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in other states.
In one New England state, a parish removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of complaints from both diocesan and government officials.
Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue
For the creators of these displays, framing the age-old story of the nativity within a contemporary political frame helps bring attention to ongoing government agendas. They contend that the family's status as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and realities of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working loved ones.
It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.
Encountering Criticism and Weathering the Elements
The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”
In a literal sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”
