Political Christmas Displays at American Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the United States, satirical holiday displays are on display that critique aggressive government immigration crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Windy City church, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a direct message: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part played by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm in the face of complaints from both religious and agency officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these displays, framing the age-old tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame draws focus to current government agendas. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and experiences of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of working family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also affected one scene. At another church, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement terror.”