Provocative Nativity Displays at American Churches Push Back on ICE

Across the US, Christmas displays have appeared that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been adopted by protesters seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of 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 chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part played by religious communities in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite complaints from various diocesan and government officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For those behind these displays, framing the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context helps bring attention to current government priorities. They contend that the family's status as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and experiences of many families today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “consider it really difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the weather have also affected one scene. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”