Satirical Nativity Scenes at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, Christmas displays are on display that critique hardline federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by protesters attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign carries a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a church leader behind one of the installations.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible role taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant in the face of complaints from both diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these displays, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context draws attention to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the real fears and experiences of many families today, including being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “find it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the true meaning is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also affected one scene. At another church, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”