Political Nativity Displays at American Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, satirical holiday displays have appeared that mock hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil 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, wearing a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago church, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with animals and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the prominent part taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from both diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these scenes, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical context draws attention to current government priorities. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the real fears and experiences of numerous families today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”