Political Nativity Displays at American Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that mock hardline government immigration crackdowns. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the kind of emergency blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City church, the customary figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the installations.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible role played by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Comparable political displays have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly remained firm despite criticism from both diocesan and government leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern political frame draws focus to ongoing administrative priorities. They contend that the holy family’s status as refugees parallels the actual fears and experiences of numerous families today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of working loved ones.

This is not the initial instance congregations have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “consider it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also affected one display. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”