Provocative Nativity Scenes at American Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that comment on hardline government immigration crackdowns. These installations retell the classic Christmas story, depicting the infant Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City place of worship, the customary figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a simple statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These visual protests are extensions of the visible role taken by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Comparable political displays have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from both religious and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context helps bring focus to current administrative priorities. They argue that the family's experience as refugees parallels the real fears and realities of many families today, including being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”