Provocative Nativity Displays at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the United States, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that mock aggressive government immigration crackdowns. These scenes retell the classic Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus lying in a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago church, the usual figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a sign bears a direct message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a church leader behind one of the installations.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part taken by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite criticism from both religious and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical context helps bring focus to ongoing government agendas. They contend that the family's status as refugees mirrors the actual fears and realities of numerous households today, including being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement actions.”