Satirical Nativity Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE
Throughout the United States, Christmas displays are on display that comment on aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the actions of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston
One powerful display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.
Nearby, the statue of Mary stands outside the building, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At another Chicago church, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“The holiday season is a time where we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the displays.
Statements Spread Nationwide
These visual protests are extensions of the visible part played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in other states.
In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that read: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm despite complaints from various diocesan and agency officials.
Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue
According to those behind these displays, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary political context draws attention to current government priorities. They contend that the holy family’s status as refugees parallels the actual fears and realities of many families today, including family separation and the removal of working loved ones.
This is not the first time congregations have employed nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms
The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating noted that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”
In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”
