Satirical Christmas Scenes at US Places of Worship Push Back on Immigration Enforcement
Across the United States, Christmas displays are on display that mock aggressive federal immigration crackdowns. These scenes reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Christ and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as figures affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.
An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One striking display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is covered by the type of thin, foil blankets frequently given to those in custody and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.
Nearby, the statue of Mary is positioned just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been used by activists seeking to guard against chemical agents. She is flanked by representations of ancient soldiers, but in this display they are wearing tactical vests marked with the letters “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At another Windy City church, the usual figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene with camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a placard bears a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“The holiday season is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the installations.
Messages Echo Nationwide
These artistic statements reflect the prominent role taken by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in other states.
In one New England state, a parish removed the small statue of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm despite criticism from various religious and government officials.
Linking Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis
According to the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context helps bring focus to current government agendas. They contend that the holy family’s experience as displaced persons mirrors the real anxieties and realities of numerous households today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning loved ones.
It is not the initial instance churches have employed nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.
Facing Criticism and Weathering Storms
The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved commented that some detractors either misinterpret the message or “find it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the actual meaning is.”
In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and could not 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 terror.”
