Provocative Christmas Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, Christmas exhibits have appeared that comment on aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies. These installations reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the infant Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston

One powerful display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its hands bound with plastic restraints.

Close by, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists seeking to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, but in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City church, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring animals and Magi. In their place, a placard bears a direct statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Messages Echo Across the Country

These visual protests reflect the prominent role taken by religious communities in recent demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable political displays have been erected in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from various religious and agency leadership.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a modern political frame draws focus to current government agendas. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the real fears and realities of numerous households today, including family separation and the deportation of working loved ones.

This is not the first time congregations have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering Storms

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a literal sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the statue of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A substitute notice now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”