Political Nativity Displays at US Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, Christmas displays are on display that critique aggressive government immigration policies. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One powerful display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of Mary stands just outside the church, equipped with a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Windy City church, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a direct message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

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

Statements Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible role played by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from various diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these scenes, framing the age-old story of the nativity within a modern political context draws attention to current administrative agendas. They argue that the family's experience as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and realities of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working loved ones.

This is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”