Political Christmas Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that critique aggressive federal immigration policies. These installations retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the infant Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been used by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to 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 make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible part taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared 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 handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from both diocesan and agency leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For those behind these scenes, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern political context draws attention to ongoing government priorities. They contend that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the real fears and realities of numerous households today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working family members.

This is not the initial instance congregations have employed nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “find it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also impacted one scene. At a separate church, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”