Provocative Christmas Displays at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas displays are on display that mock hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes retell the classic nativity story, portraying the infant Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters seeking protection from chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City place of worship, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a placard bears a simple message: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a period where we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in ongoing protests against immigration enforcement. Similar political displays have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from both diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern political context draws attention to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the family's status as refugees mirrors the actual anxieties and realities of many families today, including being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the first time congregations have employed nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, installations have highlighted topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

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

In a physical way, the elements have also impacted one display. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”