Provocative Christmas Scenes at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that comment on aggressive federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One striking display at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus lying in a manger out in the snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been adopted by activists seeking protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago church, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a placard bears a simple message: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a church leader behind one of the displays.

Statements Spread Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the prominent role played by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political displays have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite criticism from both religious and agency leadership.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these displays, framing the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern political frame draws focus to current administrative priorities. They contend that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and realities of numerous households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of working loved ones.

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

Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it really difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a physical sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At another church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”