Provocative Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus lying in a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the usual figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a placard bears a simple statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the visible role played by religious communities in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar political displays have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a handmade sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite criticism from both religious and government leadership.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern political context helps bring attention to current government agendas. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the actual anxieties and realities of many families today, encompassing family separation and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.

This is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved commented that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also impacted one display. At another location, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”