Political Nativity Scenes at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, satirical holiday displays have appeared that comment on aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations retell the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the building, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been used by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene with animals and wise men. Instead, a sign bears a direct message: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the prominent role taken by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political displays have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of complaints from various religious and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical frame helps bring focus to current government priorities. They contend that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the real fears and realities of numerous families today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the initial instance congregations have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also impacted one scene. At a separate location, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement actions.”