Political Nativity Scenes at American Churches Push Back on ICE
Across the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that mock hardline federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the traditional nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston
One powerful installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus lying in a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.
Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a respirator. This item has been used by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At another Windy City place of worship, the usual figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“The holiday season is a period when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.
Messages Spread Nationwide
These visual protests are extensions of the prominent part played by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Similar political displays have been erected in multiple states.
In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite complaints from various religious and government officials.
Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis
According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old story of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame draws focus to current administrative priorities. They argue that the family's status as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and realities of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of working family members.
It is not the initial instance congregations have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, installations have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms
The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”
In a physical way, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”