Throughout the United States, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that critique hardline federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional nativity story, portraying the infant Christ and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the tactics of enforcement agents.
One striking display at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features baby Jesus lying in a crib amidst snow. Yet, the figure is wrapped in the kind of emergency thermal blankets frequently distributed to detainees and has its hands secured by plastic restraints.
Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary is positioned just outside the church, equipped with a respirator. Such gear has been adopted by protesters seeking protection from tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing tactical vests labeled with the acronym “ICE.”
At a different Windy City place of worship, the customary figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the traditional nativity scene with animals and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a direct statement: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the holy family is in hiding.”
“The holiday season is a time where we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” said a senior minister behind one of the displays.
These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent part played by religious communities in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious displays have appeared in multiple states.
In Massachusetts, a church removed the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. In its spot was a handmade sign that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from both religious and agency officials.
For the creators of these scenes, framing the ancient tale of Christ’s birth within a contemporary sociopolitical context draws attention to current administrative agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the real fears and realities of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the removal of working family members.
This is not the first time congregations have employed nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the environmental emergency.
The statements are not always universally welcomed. A church minister involved commented that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find it very difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the art rather than considering what the true message is.”
In a literal way, the elements have also impacted one scene. At a separate church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”
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