Provocative Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday displays are on display that comment on hardline government immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago place of worship, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. In their place, a sign carries a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

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

Messages Echo Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the visible role played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political displays have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of complaints from both religious and agency leadership.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a modern political frame draws focus to current administrative priorities. They argue that the family's status as refugees parallels the actual anxieties and experiences of many households today, encompassing family separation and the removal of working loved ones.

This is not the first time congregations have used Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and was unable to be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of enforcement terror.”