Satirical Christmas Displays at US Churches Push Back on ICE

Throughout the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that critique aggressive federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood 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,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from various diocesan and government officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these displays, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern political context draws focus to ongoing administrative priorities. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and realities of numerous households today, including family separation and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.

This is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one scene. At another location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement terror.”