Political Christmas Scenes at American Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the United States, satirical holiday displays are on display that comment on aggressive government immigration crackdowns. These scenes retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ lying in a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City place of worship, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a placard bears a simple message: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part played by religious communities in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar political displays have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of criticism from both religious and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these displays, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical context helps bring focus to current administrative agendas. They contend that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and realities of many households today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time congregations have used nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, installations have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate location, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”