Satirical Christmas Displays at American Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas displays have appeared that comment on hardline federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations retell the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the kind of emergency blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional display featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a period where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a senior minister involved with one of the installations.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political displays have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm in the face of complaints from various religious and government leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these displays, presenting the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a modern 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 many households today, including family separation and the removal of working family members.

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

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one display. At another location, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”