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

Throughout the United States, Christmas displays are on display that mock hardline federal immigration enforcement policies. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus lying in a manger amidst snow. However, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a direct message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the installations.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from various religious and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these displays, framing the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a modern political frame helps bring attention to current administrative priorities. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees parallels the real anxieties and realities of many households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of breadwinning family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a physical sense, the weather have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement terror.”