Throughout the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that mock hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.
One striking display at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of thin, foil blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.
Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been used by protesters attempting protection from chemical agents. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”
At a different Chicago church, the usual figures of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and Magi. Instead, a sign bears a direct message: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“Christmas is a period when we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader behind one of the installations.
These artistic statements are extensions of the visible role played by faith leaders in ongoing protests against federal policies. Similar political exhibits have appeared in multiple states.
In Massachusetts, a church took away the small statue of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant in the face of criticism from both diocesan and agency leadership.
According to those behind these displays, framing the ancient story of the nativity within a modern sociopolitical frame draws focus to current government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons parallels the actual anxieties and experiences of numerous households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working loved ones.
It is not the initial instance churches have employed Christmas displays for political protest. Previously, displays have addressed issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.
The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some critics either misinterpret the message or “find it really challenging to their conscience and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”
In a literal sense, the weather have also affected one scene. At a separate church, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be restored. A replacement sign now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to memorialize all the those affected of enforcement actions.”
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