Political Christmas Scenes at US Churches Push Back on ICE

Across the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the kind of emergency thermal blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of Mary stands just outside the church, equipped with a respirator. This item has been used by activists seeking to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display featuring animals and Magi. Instead, a sign bears a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time when we have public art out on the lawn 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 role played by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar political exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite criticism from both diocesan and agency officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context draws attention to current government priorities. They contend that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and experiences of many families today, including family separation and the removal of working loved ones.

It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also impacted one display. At another church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”