Provocative Christmas Displays at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement
Throughout the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the classic Christmas story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.
A Stark Interpretation in Evanston
One striking display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.
Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At another Windy City place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene with camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a placard carries a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“The holiday season is a period when we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the installations.
Statements Spread Across the Country
These artistic statements are extensions of the visible role taken by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Similar political exhibits have been erected in multiple states.
In one New England state, a parish removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite criticism from various religious and agency leadership.
Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
For the creators of these scenes, framing the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a modern political frame draws attention to current government priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons mirrors the actual anxieties and experiences of many households today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.
It is not the first time churches have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.
Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms
The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual message is.”
In a literal way, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”
