Provocative Nativity Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement
Throughout the US, Christmas displays are on display that mock aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One powerful installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.
Nearby, the statue of Mary stands just outside the building, wearing a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists seeking protection from chemical agents. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Windy City church, the customary figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene with animals and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a direct message: “Due to ICE activity in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”
“The holiday season is a period where we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.
Messages Spread Nationwide
These artistic statements are extensions of the visible role taken by religious communities in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have appeared in multiple states.
In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from various religious and agency leadership.
Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue
For the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical context helps bring focus to current administrative priorities. They argue that the family's experience as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and realities of many families today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.
It is not the first time churches have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.
Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms
The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the actual message is.”
In a literal sense, the elements have also impacted one scene. At another location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”
