Political Nativity Displays at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas exhibits are on display that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets often distributed to detainees and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a placard bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible role played by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from various religious and agency leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For those behind these displays, framing the age-old tale of the nativity within a contemporary political context draws attention to current government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the real fears and experiences of numerous families today, including family separation and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.

This is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At another location, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”