Political Nativity Scenes at American Churches Push Back on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the infant Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One striking display at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned just outside the church, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists seeking to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene with animals and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a simple message: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the installations.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the prominent role played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from various religious and agency officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame helps bring attention to ongoing administrative priorities. They argue that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the actual fears and realities of many families today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”