Satirical Christmas Displays at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that critique hardline federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations retell the traditional nativity story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One powerful installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by protesters attempting to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Chicago place of worship, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard display with camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a time where we have public art out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” said a church leader behind one of the displays.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part played by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar political displays have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant despite criticism from both religious and agency officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these scenes, framing the age-old story of Christ’s birth within a modern political context draws attention to current government agendas. They contend that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the actual anxieties and experiences of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working loved ones.

This is not the initial instance churches have employed nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.

Facing Pushback and Enduring Storms

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “find it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement actions.”