Political Christmas Scenes at American Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that critique aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These scenes retell the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, equipped with a respirator. This item has been used by activists seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago church, the customary figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a placard bears a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

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

Statements Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from various diocesan and agency leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these scenes, presenting the age-old story of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame draws attention to ongoing administrative agendas. They argue that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and experiences of many families today, including family separation and the removal of working family members.

It is not the initial instance congregations have employed Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also affected one scene. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”