Political Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that mock hardline federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of Mary stands outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but 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 usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a placard bears a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have been erected in other states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of criticism from both diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context draws focus to current administrative priorities. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and experiences of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.

This is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “consider it very difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one display. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”