Political Nativity Displays at US Churches Push Back on ICE
Across the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that comment on aggressive federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, portraying the infant Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.
A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of emergency blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.
Close by, the figure of Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by activists seeking to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by 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 a different Chicago church, the customary figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a simple message: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“The holiday season is a period when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the installations.
Statements Spread Across the Country
These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by religious communities in ongoing protests against federal policies. Comparable political displays have appeared in other states.
In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from both diocesan and government leadership.
Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue
According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame draws attention to ongoing government priorities. They argue that the family's experience as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and realities of many families today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.
It is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.
Facing Pushback and Enduring the Elements
The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”
In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At another church, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”