Political Nativity Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on ICE

Across the United States, Christmas displays are on display that comment on hardline government immigration policies. These installations retell the classic nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, wearing a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City church, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct message: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a church leader behind one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part played by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Similar political displays have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a church took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm despite criticism from both diocesan and government leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these displays, framing the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context draws focus to current administrative agendas. They contend that the family's experience as refugees parallels the real fears and realities of many families today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one scene. At a separate church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”