Satirical Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE
Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that critique aggressive government immigration crackdowns. These installations retell the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.
An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb
One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.
Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists seeking protection from chemical agents. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At a different Windy City church, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. In their place, a placard bears a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”
“Christmas is a time where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.
Messages Echo Nationwide
These visual protests reflect the prominent role played by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in other states.
In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from both religious and government leadership.
Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
For those behind these displays, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a modern political context draws focus to current government priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and experiences of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the removal of working loved ones.
This is not the first time congregations have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.
Encountering Criticism and Enduring Storms
The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”
In a literal way, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”
