Many churches have spoken out against the Trump administration’s immigration policies, particularly actions taken by ICE that they view as cruel or inhumane. One church in Illinois has drawn national attention for making a powerful and controversial statement.
Lake Street Church of Evanston sparked outrage after news outlets filmed its nativity scene this year. Instead of a traditional display, the church placed a baby Jesus figure with zip ties around his wrists, symbolizing arrest. The message, according to the church, was meant to suggest that if Jesus were born today, he could be detained by ICE.
The display also featured Mary wearing a gas mask, further emphasizing the church’s criticism of modern immigration enforcement practices.
The scene quickly went viral, drawing both praise and backlash for its political message and unconventional interpretation of a classic Christian symbol.
The Illinois church’s nativity scene also included figures meant to represent ICE officers. Church leaders explained that every element of the display was chosen intentionally.
The church’s reverend addressed the symbolism, asking, “What would it be like if Jesus were born today in Chicagoland? That’s why our baby Jesus has zip ties on his hands.”
Another reverend from the church, Jillian Westerfield, responded to critics by emphasizing the deeper meaning behind the scene. “I think either they don’t fully understand the message, or they find it really challenging to their conscience,” she said. “I hope that everyone who’s upset to see a doll with a zip tie on its hands is even more upset to see that happening to the real children of God living in the world today.”
People Reacting to the Illinois Church’s Anti-ICE Nativity Scene
Of course, Trump supporters were furious after seeing what the Illinois church chose for their nativity scene. This is why one person wrote, “That’s not a church.” Another person said, “Church shouldn’t be commenting on political events.” Since the church looked to be supporting the LGBTQ+ community, a third person said, “It’s not no real church would have gay flags or signs hanging on it.” A pro-ICE individual also commented, “Yes we’re offended over the misrepresentation of ice. No babies have been zipped tied like that lady said. And all administrations deported people if they truly cared they would have cared before.”
Others supported what the Illinois church did, saying the nativity scene was an honest reflection of what’s happening in the world today. One person wrote, “They’re not wrong. With how fast this world is devolving into hate, displays like this should make people think twice. This representation is true. Jesus would be heartbroken to witness the inhumane actions happening today. We are fed up.”
Another commenter praised the display more simply, writing, “Now this is art.”
Whether praised or criticized, the nativity scene clearly sparked a heated debate.
