Satirical Nativity Scenes at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement
Throughout the United States, Christmas exhibits are on display that critique hardline federal immigration crackdowns. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston
One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.
Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Chicago church, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. In their place, a sign bears a direct message: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a time where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a church leader behind one of the displays.
Statements Echo Nationwide
These visual protests reflect the visible role played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar political displays have appeared in multiple states.
In one New England state, a church removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from both religious and agency leadership.
Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis
According to those behind these scenes, framing the age-old story of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical context draws attention to current administrative priorities. They argue that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the actual fears and experiences of many households today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.
This is not the first time churches have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, installations have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.
Encountering Criticism and Weathering the Elements
The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the true meaning is.”
In a physical sense, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement terror.”
