Provocative Nativity Displays at American Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement
Throughout the United States, Christmas exhibits are on display that comment on hardline federal immigration crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the actions of immigration authorities.
A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the kind of emergency blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.
Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by activists seeking protection from chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Chicago church, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.
Statements Echo Across the Country
These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part played by faith leaders in ongoing protests against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.
In one New England state, a church took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from various diocesan and agency leadership.
Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis
For the creators of these displays, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context draws focus to ongoing administrative priorities. They argue that the holy family’s status as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and realities of many households today, including family separation and the removal of working loved ones.
This is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.
Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements
The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”
In a literal sense, the elements have also impacted one display. At a separate location, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”