Provocative Nativity Displays at American Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday displays are on display that mock hardline federal immigration enforcement policies. These scenes retell the classic Christmas story, depicting the infant Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One striking display at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of emergency blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago church, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the prominent part taken by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from various religious and agency officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context draws focus to current administrative agendas. They contend that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and realities of numerous households today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

It is not the initial instance congregations have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”