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

Throughout the United States, Christmas exhibits have appeared that mock hardline government immigration policies. These scenes retell the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One striking display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ lying in a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by protesters seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Windy City place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct message: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the prominent role played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from various diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a modern political context draws attention to ongoing administrative agendas. They argue that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the real fears and realities of numerous households today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also impacted one display. At another church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”