Political Christmas Displays at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement
Throughout the United States, Christmas exhibits have appeared that mock hardline government immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.
A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus lying in a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets often given to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.
Nearby, the figure of Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At a different Chicago church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a period when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the displays.
Statements Spread Across the Country
These artistic statements are extensions of the visible role played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political displays have appeared in multiple states.
In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of complaints from both religious and government leadership.
Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
For the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame helps bring attention to current government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the real anxieties and experiences of many families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.
It is not the first time churches have used nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.
Encountering Criticism and Enduring Storms
The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual message is.”
In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one scene. At a separate church, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”