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

Across the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that comment on aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ lying in a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of emergency blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago church, the customary figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

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

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part taken by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a handmade sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from various religious and government leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, presenting the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a modern political context draws focus to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and experiences of numerous families today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the weather have also impacted one scene. At another location, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement terror.”