Provocative Christmas Scenes at American Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that comment on hardline federal immigration policies. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the kind of emergency thermal blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago church, the usual figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with animals and Magi. Instead, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period where we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” said a church leader behind one of the displays.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the visible role taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political displays have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm despite complaints from both diocesan and government leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For those behind these displays, presenting the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context draws attention to current government priorities. They argue that the family's status as refugees parallels the actual fears and experiences of numerous families today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”