Satirical Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas displays have appeared that critique aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, depicting the infant Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ lying in a crib amidst snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been used by protesters seeking protection from chemical agents. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard display with animals and Magi. Instead, a placard carries a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a church leader behind one of the installations.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the prominent role taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in other states.

In one New England state, a church took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant in the face of criticism from various diocesan and agency officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these displays, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical frame draws focus to current administrative agendas. They argue that the family's status as refugees mirrors the real fears and realities of many households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of working loved ones.

It is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement terror.”