Political Nativity Displays at American Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement
Throughout the United States, satirical holiday displays have appeared that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One powerful installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the kind of emergency blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.
Nearby, the figure of Mary stands outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by activists seeking to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Windy City place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard bears a simple message: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“Christmas is a time where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.
Messages Echo Across the Country
These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent role taken by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have appeared in other states.
In one New England state, a church took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm in the face of criticism from various religious and agency leadership.
Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue
For the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical frame draws attention to current government agendas. They contend that the family's experience as refugees parallels the actual anxieties and experiences of numerous families today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of working loved ones.
It is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements
The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved commented that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”
In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one display. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement terror.”
