Political Christmas Scenes at American Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement
Throughout the United States, Christmas displays have appeared that comment on hardline federal immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the classic nativity story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims affected by the actions of immigration authorities.
An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb
One powerful display at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ placed within a manger amidst snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the type of emergency thermal blankets often distributed to those in custody and has its wrists bound with zip-ties.
Close by, the statue of Mary is positioned outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters seeking protection from chemical agents. Beside her are figures of ancient soldiers, however in this scene they are dressed in body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At another Chicago place of worship, the usual figures of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display featuring animals and wise men. In their place, a placard carries a direct statement: “Due to ICE activity in our community the Holy Family is in seclusion.”
“The holiday season is a period where we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a senior minister involved with one of the displays.
Statements Spread Across the Country
These artistic statements reflect the visible role played by religious communities in ongoing protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable political displays have appeared in other states.
In one New England state, a church took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted sign that stated: “ICE was here.” The parish reportedly remained firm in the face of criticism from various religious and government officials.
Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis
According to those behind these scenes, presenting the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a contemporary political frame draws focus to current government priorities. They argue that the holy family’s experience as refugees parallels the actual fears and realities of numerous households today, including family separation and the removal of working loved ones.
It is not the first time congregations have employed nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, displays have addressed topics ranging from conflict to the environmental emergency.
Facing Criticism and Weathering Storms
The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “consider it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are lashing out at the art rather than considering what the actual meaning is.”
In a physical way, the elements have also affected one scene. At a separate location, the statue of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, declaring: “Joseph was lost. We keep this place to honor and remember all the those affected of enforcement terror.”
