Provocative Nativity Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that critique hardline federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the kind of emergency blankets often given to detainees and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands outside the church, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago church, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign bears a direct message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a period where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the installations.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the prominent part played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that read: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant in the face of complaints from various religious and government officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, framing the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context draws focus to ongoing government priorities. They argue that the family's experience as displaced persons parallels the actual anxieties and realities of numerous families today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the first time congregations have employed nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”