Provocative Christmas Scenes at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that critique aggressive government immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One striking display at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by activists seeking protection from chemical agents. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a direct message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part played by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant in the face of criticism from various diocesan and government officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame draws focus to current government priorities. They argue that the family's status as refugees mirrors the actual fears and realities of many households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of breadwinning family members.

This is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also impacted one scene. At another location, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement terror.”