Satirical Nativity Scenes at US Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, Christmas displays have appeared that mock aggressive government immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus lying in a manger out in the snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City church, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene with animals and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

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

Messages Spread Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part played by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from various religious and agency officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these displays, presenting the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political frame draws attention to current administrative priorities. They contend that the family's status as refugees parallels the actual anxieties and realities of many families today, including family separation and the removal of breadwinning family members.

It is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “find it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also impacted one scene. At a separate church, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”