Political Nativity Displays at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas displays have appeared that comment on hardline federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the classic nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City church, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene with animals and Magi. In their place, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the visible part played by religious communities in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite criticism from both diocesan and government leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these displays, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political frame helps bring focus to ongoing administrative agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and experiences of numerous families today, including family separation and the removal of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time churches have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement terror.”