Satirical Christmas Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday displays are on display that comment on aggressive federal immigration policies. These installations retell the classic Christmas story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb

One striking display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the building, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by activists seeking to guard against tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the usual figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Statements Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part played by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant in the face of criticism from both religious and government leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern political context draws attention to current government priorities. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the real anxieties and experiences of many households today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have used nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, displays have addressed issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a physical sense, the weather 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 replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement actions.”