Political Christmas Displays at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that mock hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the infant Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of emergency blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by activists attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago church, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a simple message: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a church leader behind one of the installations.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible part played by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Comparable political displays have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant despite criticism from both religious and agency leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these displays, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame helps bring focus to ongoing government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and realities of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working loved ones.

It is not the initial instance churches have used nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “consider it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one display. At another location, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”