Satirical Nativity Scenes at US Places of Worship Push Back on ICE
Throughout the United States, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that comment on aggressive federal immigration crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston
One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.
Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists seeking to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At a different Windy City place of worship, the customary figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood 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 make a statement,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the installations.
Messages Spread Nationwide
These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have been erected in multiple states.
In one New England state, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that read: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from various diocesan and government officials.
Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
For those behind these displays, presenting the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political frame draws attention to current administrative agendas. They contend that the family's status as refugees mirrors the actual fears and realities of many families today, including family separation and the removal of working family members.
This is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.
Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms
The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved commented that some detractors either do not fully understand 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 literal way, the elements have also impacted one scene. At another location, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”
