Satirical Christmas Displays at American Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These scenes retell the classic nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One striking installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Close by, the figure of Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists seeking 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.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At another Windy City church, the usual figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a simple statement: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period where we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister involved with one of the displays.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These visual protests reflect the prominent part played by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious displays have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from various religious and government leadership.

Connecting Ancient Story and Modern Crisis

According to the creators of these scenes, framing the age-old story of the nativity within a modern political frame draws attention to current administrative priorities. They argue that the family's experience as refugees parallels the actual fears and realities of many households today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the initial instance congregations have used Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, installations have highlighted topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Encountering Criticism and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the actual message is.”

In a physical way, the weather have also affected one scene. At another location, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”