Satirical Nativity Scenes at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement
Throughout the US, satirical holiday displays are on display that comment on hardline federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.
An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston
One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ lying in a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of emergency blankets often given to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.
Close by, the figure of Mary is positioned just outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by protesters seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At another Chicago church, the customary figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a time where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.
Messages Spread Nationwide
These artistic statements are extensions of the visible part taken by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in multiple states.
In Massachusetts, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that read: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from both religious and agency officials.
Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis
According to those behind these displays, presenting the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context helps bring focus to ongoing administrative priorities. They contend that the family's experience as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and realities of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working loved ones.
This is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.
Facing Pushback and Enduring Storms
The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than considering what the actual message is.”
In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one display. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”
