Political Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the United States, Christmas exhibits have appeared that mock hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes retell the classic nativity story, portraying the infant Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One striking display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of emergency blankets often distributed to detainees and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the customary models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign bears a direct statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political exhibits have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a handmade notice that read: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from various diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For those behind these displays, presenting the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical frame draws focus to ongoing government agendas. They contend that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and experiences of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning family members.

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

Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one scene. At another location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”