Political Christmas Scenes at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits are on display that mock aggressive federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with animals and wise men. Instead, a sign bears a simple statement: “Due to enforcement actions 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 chance to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible role taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political displays have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant in the face of criticism from various diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these scenes, presenting the age-old tale of the nativity within a modern political frame helps bring attention to current administrative priorities. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the real fears and realities of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working family members.

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

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved commented that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find it very challenging 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 literal sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”