Political Nativity Displays at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a simple statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part taken by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite complaints from both diocesan and government officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these displays, presenting the age-old tale of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical context draws focus to current government priorities. They contend that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the real fears and realities of numerous households today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also affected one display. At another church, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”