Provocative Christmas Scenes at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that mock hardline government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of emergency blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of Mary is positioned just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the prominent role taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political displays have been erected in other states.

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

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these displays, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary political frame draws focus to ongoing administrative agendas. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the real fears and experiences of many families today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the first time churches have used nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the weather have also impacted one scene. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”