Political Nativity Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits are on display that comment on aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ lying in a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of emergency thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have public art out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part taken by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm despite complaints from both religious and government officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a modern political frame helps bring focus to current administrative priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and experiences of numerous families today, encompassing family separation and the removal of breadwinning family members.

This is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also impacted one display. At another location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”