Political Nativity Scenes at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that mock hardline government immigration crackdowns. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a sign bears a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

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

Messages Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite complaints from various religious and government leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these scenes, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern political frame draws attention to current government agendas. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees mirrors the real fears and realities of numerous families today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working family members.

This is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”