Political Nativity Scenes at American Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that critique aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations retell the classic nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been used by protesters seeking protection from chemical agents. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago church, the usual figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a placard bears a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

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

Statements Spread Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the prominent part taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that read: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from various diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a modern political context helps bring attention to current government priorities. They contend that the family's status as refugees parallels the real anxieties and experiences of many households today, including family separation and the removal of breadwinning family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, displays have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “consider 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 literal sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At another church, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”