Satirical Nativity Scenes at American Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the US, satirical holiday displays are on display that comment on aggressive government immigration enforcement policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.

A Stark Retelling in Evanston

One striking display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a crib amidst snow. However, the doll is covered by the type of emergency blankets often given to detainees and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.

Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the building, wearing a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters seeking to guard against tear gas. She is flanked by representations of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Windy City church, the usual models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display with animals and wise men. In their place, a sign bears a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our community the holy family is in seclusion.”

“The holiday season is a period where we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to make a statement,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.

Messages Echo Nationwide

These visual protests are extensions of the visible part played by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays have been erected in multiple states.

In one New England state, a church 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 both religious and government officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these displays, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context draws attention to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the family's status as refugees parallels the real anxieties and realities of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

This is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very challenging 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 sense, the elements have also impacted one scene. At a separate location, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement terror.”