Satirical Christmas Scenes at American Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement
Across the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that critique hardline government immigration crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the infant Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.
An Evocative Retelling in Evanston
One striking display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ lying in a crib out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.
Close by, the figure of Mary stands outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been adopted by activists attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At another Windy City church, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a period when we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the installations.
Messages Spread Across the Country
These artistic statements reflect the visible role played by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Similar political exhibits 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 notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of complaints from various diocesan and government leadership.
Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue
According to the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical context draws attention to current government priorities. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the real fears and realities of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.
This is not the first time churches have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, installations have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.
Encountering Pushback and Weathering the Elements
The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “consider it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”
In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”
