Political Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that comment on aggressive government immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One powerful display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of Mary stands outside the building, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by protesters seeking to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with animals and wise men. In their place, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part played by religious communities in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from various diocesan and government officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary political context draws focus to ongoing government priorities. They contend that the holy family’s status as refugees parallels the actual anxieties and experiences of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one display. At another location, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”