Satirical Nativity Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on ICE

Throughout the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that critique hardline government immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by activists seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign bears a direct message: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant in the face of criticism from both diocesan and government officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these displays, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern political frame draws focus to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the real fears and experiences of many families today, including family separation and the deportation of working loved ones.

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

Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with 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 knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”