Provocative Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, Christmas displays have appeared that comment on aggressive government immigration policies. These installations retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the infant Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of emergency blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago church, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a placard bears a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the prominent part taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant despite criticism from both religious and government leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these displays, presenting the age-old story of the nativity within a modern political frame helps bring attention to current government agendas. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and realities of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”