Political Nativity Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas exhibits are on display that comment on aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ lying in a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the building, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City church, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with animals and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

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

Statements Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the visible role taken by religious communities in ongoing protests against federal policies. Comparable political displays have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite complaints from both religious and agency officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these displays, framing the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a modern political context helps bring focus to current administrative priorities. They contend that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the actual fears and experiences of many households today, including family separation and the removal of working family members.

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

Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”