Satirical Christmas Displays at US Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Throughout the United States, satirical holiday displays are on display that comment on aggressive federal immigration crackdowns. These installations retell the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Christ and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the actions of enforcement agents.

A Stark Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features baby Jesus lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the figure is covered by the type of emergency thermal blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands bound with zip-ties.

Nearby, the statue of Mary stands outside the church, wearing a respirator. This item has been used by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. Beside her are representations of Roman soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in body armor marked with the acronym “ICE.”

‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’

At a different Chicago church, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional display with camels and donkeys and Magi. Instead, a sign bears a simple message: “Because of enforcement actions in our neighborhood the holy family is in seclusion.”

“Christmas is a time where we have public art in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” said a church leader behind one of the displays.

Statements Spread Across the Country

These artistic statements reflect the prominent part played by religious communities in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious exhibits have appeared in multiple states.

In Massachusetts, a church took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. In its spot was a handmade sign that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly remained firm despite criticism from both religious and government officials.

Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue

According to those behind these displays, presenting the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical context helps bring focus to current government agendas. They argue that the family's status as refugees mirrors the real anxieties and experiences of many families today, including family separation and the deportation of working loved ones.

This is not the initial instance churches have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, displays have addressed topics ranging from war to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements

The messages are not always universally welcomed. A clergy member involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really challenging to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual message is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate church, the figure of Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now marks the space, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the victims of enforcement actions.”