Political Christmas Scenes at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful display at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by protesters seeking protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”

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

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the visible role played by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a handmade sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from various religious and government leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame draws focus to ongoing government agendas. They contend that the holy family’s status as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and realities of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the removal of working loved ones.

It is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have highlighted topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister 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 reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At another church, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”