Satirical Nativity Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE
Across the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that comment on aggressive federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.
A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.
Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At another Windy City place of worship, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”
“Christmas is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a church leader behind one of the displays.
Statements Echo Across the Country
These visual protests reflect the visible role played by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Similar political displays have been erected in other states.
In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite complaints from both religious and agency leadership.
Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue
For the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame helps bring attention to current administrative priorities. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and realities of many families today, including family separation and the deportation of working loved ones.
This is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
Encountering Pushback and Weathering the Elements
The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the true message is.”
In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement terror.”
