Satirical Christmas Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, Christmas displays have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of emergency blankets often distributed to detainees and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by activists seeking to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene with animals and Magi. In their place, a placard bears a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

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

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the prominent role played by religious communities in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that read: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant in the face of complaints from both religious and government officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For those behind these displays, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political frame draws attention to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and realities of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.

This is not the initial instance congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”