Political Christmas Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that mock hardline federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations reimagine the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a manger out in the snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. In their place, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a period where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm in the face of complaints from both diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these scenes, presenting the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political frame draws focus to ongoing government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the actual fears and experiences of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working family members.

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

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”