Political Nativity Displays at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that comment on aggressive federal immigration policies. These installations retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets often given to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a respirator. This item has been used by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard bears a simple statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar political displays have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from various diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these displays, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical context draws focus to current administrative agendas. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and experiences of numerous families today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one display. At another location, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement terror.”