Satirical Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the US, Christmas displays are on display that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ lying in a manger out in the snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists seeking protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a direct message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time when 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 reflect the visible part taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political displays have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm in the face of complaints from various religious and agency officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these displays, framing the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical context helps bring attention to current administrative priorities. They argue that the family's experience as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and realities of numerous families today, including family separation and the removal of working loved ones.

It is not the first time churches have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have highlighted issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find it very difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also affected one scene. At another location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”