Political Nativity Scenes at American Churches Push Back on ICE

Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that mock hardline federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with animals and wise men. In their place, a sign bears a direct message: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the prominent part played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political exhibits have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that read: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant in the face of criticism from various diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these displays, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical frame helps bring attention to current government agendas. They argue that the family's experience as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and realities of numerous households today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of working family members.

It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”