Throughout the United States, Christmas displays are on display that mock aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations retell the classic nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston
One striking display at a church in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ lying in a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of emergency blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.
Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by protesters attempting to guard against tear gas. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Windy City place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with animals and Magi. Instead, a sign bears a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity 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 make a statement,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the displays.
Statements Echo Across the Country
These artistic statements reflect the visible role played by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Similar political displays have appeared in other states.
In one New England state, a parish removed the small statue of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of criticism from both religious and government officials.
Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
For those behind these scenes, presenting the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern political context draws attention to ongoing administrative agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees parallels the actual fears and experiences of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working family members.
This is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, installations have highlighted topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.
Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements
The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”
In a physical way, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”
