Provocative Christmas Scenes at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, satirical holiday displays have appeared that critique hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been used by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago church, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional display featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard bears a simple statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

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

Messages Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in multiple 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: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from both diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these scenes, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context draws focus to current government priorities. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the actual anxieties and experiences of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the first time churches have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, installations have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At another location, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”