Provocative Nativity Displays at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the United States, Christmas exhibits are on display that mock hardline government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the newborn Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands outside the building, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by activists seeking protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign bears a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” said a senior minister involved with one of the installations.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the visible role taken by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm in the face of criticism from various diocesan and agency leadership.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For those behind these displays, framing the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a modern political frame draws attention to current government agendas. They argue that the family's experience as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and experiences of many households today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, installations have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At another location, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement actions.”