Political Nativity Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that critique hardline federal immigration crackdowns. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of emergency thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago church, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring animals and wise men. In their place, a sign carries a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible role taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from both diocesan and agency leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical context draws attention to ongoing administrative agendas. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and realities of numerous families today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of working loved ones.

It is not the first time churches have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “find it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”