Provocative Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Push Back on ICE

Throughout the United States, Christmas exhibits have appeared that critique hardline federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the building, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City church, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard bears a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” said a church leader behind one of the installations.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church removed the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from both religious and government officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these displays, framing the age-old story of the nativity within a contemporary political context draws focus to ongoing administrative priorities. They argue that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the actual fears and realities of many families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working family members.

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

Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved commented 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 considering what the actual message is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also impacted one display. At another location, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”