Satirical Nativity Displays at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, satirical holiday displays are on display that mock hardline federal immigration crackdowns. These installations retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ lying in a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by activists attempting protection from chemical agents. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City place of worship, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene with animals and wise men. In their place, a sign carries a simple message: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

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

Messages Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the visible role played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from various religious and agency leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame helps bring focus to current government priorities. They contend that the family's status as refugees parallels the actual anxieties and experiences of numerous households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of breadwinning family members.

This is not the initial instance congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “consider it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”