Satirical Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, Christmas exhibits are on display that comment on hardline federal immigration policies. These scenes retell the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by protesters seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago church, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene featuring animals and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the visible role taken by religious communities in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of criticism from various religious and government leadership.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these scenes, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context helps bring attention to current administrative priorities. They argue that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons mirrors the actual anxieties and experiences of numerous families today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also affected one scene. At another location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”