Provocative Nativity Scenes at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that mock aggressive government immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary stands outside the building, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard bears a simple statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a time where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent role played by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a handmade sign that read: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant in the face of criticism from various diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these scenes, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame draws attention to ongoing government priorities. They contend that the family's experience as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and realities of numerous households today, including family separation and the removal of working loved ones.

This is not the first time congregations have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate church, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”