Overview
- The St. Susanna display replaces the Holy Family with a large sign reading “ICE was here” and lists a local immigration-monitoring hotline.
- Archdiocesan officials labeled the scene “divisive political messaging,” said it violates church norms, and stated it should be removed; the display remained up Sunday pending parish discussions and a written directive.
- Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons criticized the installation as political rhetoric and said the agency is not separating families in the way the display suggests.
- DHS has denied reports that children’s wrists were zip-tied during enforcement actions referenced by some churches, as similar Nativity installations in Illinois and elsewhere draw national attention.
- Clergy behind the displays say they aim to link the Christmas story to today’s immigration realities, reporting both strong support and abusive threats after widespread media coverage.