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Satirical Nativity Scenes at American Churches Offer Commentary on ICE
Throughout the US, Christmas displays are on display that comment on aggressive government immigration crackdowns. These scenes retell the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.
A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One striking display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.
Close by, the figure of Mary stands outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At another Chicago place of worship, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. In their place, a sign carries a simple statement: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.
Statements Spread Nationwide
These artistic statements reflect the prominent part taken by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Similar socially conscious exhibits have appeared in multiple states.
In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant in the face of criticism from both religious and agency leadership.
Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue
For the creators of these scenes, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical frame helps bring focus to ongoing government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons parallels the real fears and experiences of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.
It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms
The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “find it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”
In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”
Rita Davis
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