Satirical Nativity Scenes at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that mock hardline federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands outside the church, wearing a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists seeking to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of ICE activity in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a time where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the installations.

Messages Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements are extensions of the visible role played by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have remained firm in the face of complaints from both religious and agency officials.

Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

For the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political context helps bring focus to current government agendas. They contend that the family's experience as refugees mirrors the real fears and experiences of many households today, including being torn apart and the removal of working family members.

This is not the initial instance churches have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, installations have highlighted issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Pushback and Weathering the Elements

The statements are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member participating noted that some critics either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than considering what the true message is.”

In a literal way, the elements have also affected one display. At another church, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”