Political Nativity Scenes at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that comment on hardline government immigration policies. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago church, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a placard bears a simple message: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part played by religious communities in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant in the face of complaints from both religious and government leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For those behind these displays, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame draws focus to current administrative priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons mirrors the real fears and experiences of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working loved ones.

It is not the first time congregations have used nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also affected one display. At another location, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”