Political Nativity Displays at US Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus lying in a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign bears a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the displays.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part taken by religious communities in ongoing protests against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly remained firm despite complaints from both diocesan and government officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these displays, presenting the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political frame helps bring attention to current administrative agendas. They argue that the family's experience as displaced persons parallels 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 churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved commented that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a physical sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At another location, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement actions.”