Satirical Christmas Displays at US Churches Push Back on ICE
Throughout the United States, satirical holiday displays are on display that critique aggressive federal immigration crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.
A Stark Retelling in Evanston
One striking installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.
Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Windy City church, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a sign carries a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a senior minister involved with one of the installations.
Messages Spread Across the Country
These visual protests reflect the prominent role played by religious communities in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in multiple states.
In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from various religious and government officials.
Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
For those behind these displays, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context helps bring focus to current administrative priorities. They contend that the family's experience as refugees parallels the real anxieties and realities of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working loved ones.
This is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
Facing Pushback and Enduring the Elements
The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”
In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”
