Provocative Christmas Displays at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement
Across the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that comment on aggressive federal immigration policies. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.
A Stark Interpretation in Evanston
One powerful display at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.
Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the church, equipped with a respirator. This item has been adopted by protesters seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Windy City church, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a period where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the displays.
Statements Spread Across the Country
These artistic statements reflect the prominent part taken by religious communities in ongoing protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable political exhibits have been erected in multiple states.
In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of criticism from both religious and agency leadership.
Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis
According to the creators of these displays, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame draws focus to current government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s experience as refugees mirrors the real fears and realities of numerous households today, including family separation and the deportation of working loved ones.
It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.
Encountering Criticism and Enduring the Elements
The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”
In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one scene. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”