Provocative Nativity Displays at American Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday displays are on display that comment on hardline federal immigration policies. These installations reimagine the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus lying in a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the kind of emergency thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the building, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a direct message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a church leader behind one of the displays.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part played by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite criticism from both diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

For those behind these scenes, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame helps bring attention to ongoing administrative agendas. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees mirrors the real fears and realities of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of working 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 war to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”