Provocative Nativity Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the United States, satirical holiday displays have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration crackdowns. These installations reimagine the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil blankets frequently given to detainees and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of Mary stands outside the church, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City place of worship, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.

Messages Spread Nationwide

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

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that read: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of criticism from various religious and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

For those behind these scenes, presenting the age-old story of the nativity within a contemporary political frame draws focus to ongoing administrative priorities. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the real fears and realities of many families today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.

It is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “consider it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also impacted one display. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”