Political Christmas Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that mock hardline government immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of emergency blankets often given to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the prominent part played by religious communities in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm despite criticism from both diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these scenes, presenting the age-old story of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame draws focus to ongoing government priorities. They contend that the family's experience as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and realities of numerous households today, including being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning family members.

This is not the first time churches have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, installations have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”