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

Across the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that comment on aggressive government immigration crackdowns. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of Mary stands just outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by protesters seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing body armor labeled 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 nativity scene with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a direct message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible part played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from various diocesan and government officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context helps bring attention to ongoing administrative agendas. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the actual anxieties and experiences of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

This is not the first time churches have used nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved commented that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”