Satirical Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement
Across the United States, Christmas exhibits are on display that mock aggressive government immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.
A Stark Retelling in Evanston
One striking display at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a crib out in the snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of emergency thermal blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.
Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Chicago place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display with animals and Magi. In their place, a placard carries a direct message: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“Christmas is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the displays.
Statements Echo Across the Country
These visual protests reflect the visible role played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.
In one New England state, a church removed the small statue of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that read: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of complaints from various diocesan and agency leadership.
Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue
For the creators of these displays, presenting the age-old tale of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame helps bring attention to ongoing government priorities. They argue that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and experiences of many households today, including family separation and the removal of working family members.
This is not the first time congregations have used nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.
Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements
The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”
In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”