Satirical Nativity Scenes at US Places of Worship Push Back on ICE
Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that mock hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.
A Stark Retelling in Evanston
One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.
Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, wearing a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At another Chicago place of worship, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with animals and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a simple statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.
Messages Spread Nationwide
These artistic statements reflect the prominent role played by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.
In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from both religious and government officials.
Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue
According to those behind these scenes, presenting the age-old tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame draws focus to current administrative agendas. They contend that the family's experience as displaced persons parallels the actual anxieties and experiences of many households today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of working family members.
This is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
Facing Criticism and Weathering Storms
The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”
In a literal sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement actions.”