Political Nativity Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that comment on hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One striking installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ lying in a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of emergency blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by protesters attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago church, the customary figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a direct statement: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the prominent role played by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a church removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from both diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical frame draws focus to current administrative agendas. They argue that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the real fears and realities of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

This is not the first time churches have used nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”