Satirical Nativity Displays at American Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement
Across the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that mock aggressive government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, depicting the infant Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the actions of immigration authorities.
A Stark Interpretation in Evanston
One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus lying in a crib out in the snow. However, the doll is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.
Close by, the figure of Mary stands just outside the building, wearing a respirator. Such gear has been used by protesters attempting protection from tear gas. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Chicago place of worship, the customary models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a placard carries a direct message: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“Christmas is a time when we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the installations.
Messages Spread Nationwide
These visual protests reflect the prominent role taken by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have appeared in other states.
In one New England state, a parish took away the small statue of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. In its spot was a hand-painted notice that read: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from both religious and government officials.
Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
According to those behind these displays, presenting the age-old tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical frame draws attention to current government agendas. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and experiences of many families today, including being torn apart and the removal of breadwinning loved ones.
It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, installations have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.
Encountering Criticism and Weathering the Elements
The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “consider it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”
In a literal way, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”
