Provocative Nativity Scenes at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas exhibits are on display that critique aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations retell the classic nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a manger amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Windy City place of worship, the usual figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a church leader behind one of the installations.

Statements Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part taken by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Comparable political exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm despite complaints from various religious and agency leadership.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these scenes, presenting the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical frame helps bring focus to ongoing administrative priorities. They argue that the holy family’s experience as refugees mirrors the actual fears and experiences of many households today, including family separation and the deportation of working family members.

It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the message 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 elements have also impacted one display. At a separate location, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”