Provocative Nativity Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that comment on hardline federal immigration crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One powerful installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois shows baby Jesus placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently distributed to those in custody and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists seeking protection from tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional display featuring animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in hiding.”

“The holiday season is a period when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the visible role taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.

In one New England state, a parish removed the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant in the face of complaints from various religious and government leadership.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these displays, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context draws attention to ongoing administrative priorities. They argue that the family's status as refugees parallels the actual fears and experiences of many households today, encompassing family separation and the deportation of working family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Weathering Storms

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

In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one scene. At a separate location, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of enforcement actions.”