Satirical Christmas Scenes at US Churches Push Back on ICE
Across the US, Christmas displays have appeared that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.
A Stark Interpretation in Evanston
One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.
Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists seeking to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, however in this scene 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 Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a simple message: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“The holiday season is a period when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the installations.
Statements Echo Across the Country
These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part taken by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political displays have been erected in multiple states.
In one New England state, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant despite criticism from both diocesan and government leadership.
Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
For the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical context draws focus to current administrative priorities. They argue that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the actual fears and realities of many families today, including family separation and the removal of breadwinning family members.
It is not the initial instance churches have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, installations have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms
The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved commented that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”
In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”