Political Nativity Scenes at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas displays have appeared that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One powerful display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the type of emergency blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of Mary is positioned just outside the church, equipped with a respirator. This item has been used by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political displays have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant in the face of complaints from various religious and agency officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these scenes, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary political frame helps bring focus to ongoing government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons parallels the real fears and experiences of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working loved ones.

It is not the initial instance congregations have used nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

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

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”