Satirical Christmas Displays at US Churches Push Back on ICE
Throughout the United States, satirical holiday displays are on display that comment on hardline federal immigration policies. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.
An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston
One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ lying in a manger out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.
Close by, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At a different Windy City church, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. In their place, a sign bears a simple statement: “Due to 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 opportunity to make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.
Messages Spread Across the Country
These visual protests reflect the visible part taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political displays have appeared in multiple states.
In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of complaints from both religious and agency officials.
Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
For the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical frame draws focus to current government priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees mirrors the actual fears and realities of numerous families today, including family separation and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.
This is not the initial instance congregations have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
Facing Pushback and Enduring Storms
The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the true message is.”
In a physical way, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”