Satirical Nativity Displays at American Places of Worship Push Back on ICE

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that comment on hardline government immigration crackdowns. These installations reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a congregation 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 often given to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of Mary stands outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago church, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard display with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible role taken by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Similar political exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant in the face of criticism from both religious and government leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these scenes, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary political frame helps bring attention to ongoing administrative priorities. They contend that the family's experience as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and experiences of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of working family members.

It is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At another location, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”