Satirical Nativity Scenes at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement
Throughout the United States, Christmas displays are on display that mock hardline federal immigration crackdowns. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, depicting the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the actions of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Retelling in Evanston
One striking installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois shows the infant Christ placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with zip-ties.
Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been used by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with animals and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“The holiday season is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the installations.
Statements Spread Across the Country
These artistic statements reflect the visible part taken by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.
In Massachusetts, a church removed the small statue of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant in the face of criticism from both diocesan and agency leadership.
Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue
According to the creators of these scenes, framing the age-old story of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical context draws attention to current government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the actual anxieties and experiences of many households today, including being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning family members.
It is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.
Encountering Criticism and Weathering the Elements
The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”
In a literal way, the weather have also impacted one display. At a separate church, the statue of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now marks the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement terror.”
