Political Nativity Displays at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that critique aggressive federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned just outside the building, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring animals and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a simple statement: “Because of enforcement actions 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 opportunity to say something,” remarked a church leader behind one of the installations.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant in the face of complaints from various diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern political context draws focus to current government agendas. They argue that the family's experience as refugees parallels the actual fears and experiences of numerous families today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of working family members.

This is not the initial instance congregations have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, installations have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “consider it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also impacted one scene. At another location, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”