Satirical Nativity Scenes at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas exhibits are on display that critique hardline federal immigration crackdowns. These scenes retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One powerful display at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists seeking to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with 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.”

“Christmas is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the prominent part taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar political displays have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from both religious and agency leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical context draws focus to ongoing administrative agendas. They contend that the family's experience as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and experiences of numerous families today, including family separation and the removal of working family members.

It is not the initial instance churches have employed nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved commented that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the weather have also affected one scene. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”