Satirical Christmas Scenes at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement
Across the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that mock aggressive federal immigration policies. These installations retell the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Christ and his family, Joseph and Mary, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.
An Evocative Interpretation in Evanston
One striking installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of emergency thermal blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its wrists secured by zip-ties.
Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by protesters attempting protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are dressed in tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Chicago church, the customary figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a placard bears a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“The holiday season is a time where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a church leader behind one of the installations.
Messages Spread Across the Country
These artistic statements reflect the visible part taken by faith leaders in recent demonstrations against immigration enforcement. Comparable political exhibits have appeared in other states.
In Massachusetts, a parish removed the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant in the face of complaints from both religious and government leadership.
Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
According to the creators of these displays, framing the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern political frame helps bring attention to ongoing administrative priorities. They contend that the family's experience as displaced persons parallels the real anxieties and experiences of many families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of breadwinning family members.
It is not the first time churches have used Christmas displays for political protest. In previous years, displays have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
Encountering Criticism and Enduring Storms
The statements are not always widely accepted. A clergy member involved commented that some detractors either do not fully understand the message or “consider it really challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”
In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one scene. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the spot, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to honor and remember all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”
