Satirical Christmas Scenes at US Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement

Across the US, satirical holiday displays have appeared that mock hardline federal immigration enforcement policies. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Retelling in Evanston

One striking installation at a church in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus placed within a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.

Close by, the figure of Mary stands just outside the church, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by activists attempting to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At another Windy City place of worship, the usual models of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene featuring animals and Magi. In their place, a placard carries a simple statement: “Because of ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to make a statement,” remarked a church leader involved with one of the installations.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the visible part played by religious communities in recent protests against federal policies. Similar political displays have appeared in other states.

In Massachusetts, a church removed the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a hand-painted sign that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite criticism from various diocesan and agency officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

For the creators of these displays, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary political frame helps bring focus to ongoing administrative agendas. They contend that the family's status as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and realities of many households today, including family separation and the deportation of breadwinning family members.

It is not the first time churches have employed nativity scenes for political protest. Previously, installations have highlighted topics ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring Storms

The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some critics either do not fully understand the message or “find it very challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”

In a physical sense, the elements have also affected one display. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A substitute notice now occupies the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”