Political Nativity Scenes at US Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday displays are on display that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Jesus and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

A Stark Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows the infant Christ placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned just outside the building, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are figures of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Chicago place of worship, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional display with animals and wise men. Instead, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

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

Statements Spread Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the visible role taken by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Similar socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.

In one New England state, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that read: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of criticism from both diocesan and government leadership.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame helps bring focus to ongoing administrative priorities. They argue that the family's experience as displaced persons parallels the real fears and experiences of numerous families today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of working loved ones.

It is not the first time congregations have employed nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.

Encountering Pushback and Enduring the Elements

The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and was unable to be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”