Political Nativity Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that critique hardline federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of emergency blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been adopted by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a placard carries a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a church leader behind one of the displays.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the visible role played by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Similar political displays have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite complaints from various diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these displays, framing the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political frame draws focus to ongoing government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and realities of numerous households today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working loved ones.

It is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also affected one scene. At another location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”