Political Nativity Displays at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the United States, Christmas exhibits are on display that critique hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus lying in a crib out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago church, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a placard bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a church leader behind one of the installations.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the visible part played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite criticism from both diocesan and agency officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical context draws focus to current administrative agendas. They contend that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and experiences of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

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

Facing Criticism and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved commented that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a physical sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At another church, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”