Provocative Nativity Displays at American Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, Christmas displays are on display that critique hardline government immigration policies. These installations retell the classic nativity story, portraying 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 installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil blankets often distributed to detainees and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display featuring animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a simple message: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent role played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant in the face of criticism from various diocesan and government officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Contemporary Issue

According to the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical context draws focus to ongoing administrative priorities. They contend that the family's experience as refugees parallels the actual anxieties and realities of many families today, encompassing family separation and the removal of breadwinning family members.

This is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate location, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement terror.”