Satirical Nativity Scenes at American Places of Worship Push Back on ICE

Throughout the United States, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that mock hardline government immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ lying in a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of emergency thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the building, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Windy City place of worship, the customary figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“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 installations.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly remained firm despite complaints from both diocesan and agency officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these displays, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical context draws focus to ongoing government priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and experiences of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the removal of working family members.

This is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate church, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”