Satirical Christmas Displays at US Places of Worship Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement
Throughout the US, Christmas exhibits have appeared that mock aggressive government immigration policies. These scenes reimagine the traditional Christmas story, portraying the infant Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as figures affected by the tactics of immigration authorities.
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 crib out in the snow. However, the figure is wrapped in the type of thin, foil thermal blankets often given to those in custody and has its hands bound with zip-ties.
Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the church, wearing a gas mask. This item has been adopted by protesters seeking protection from chemical agents. She is flanked by figures of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are wearing body armor labeled with the acronym “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At a different Chicago place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard display featuring camels and donkeys and Magi. In their place, a sign bears a simple message: “Due to enforcement actions in our neighborhood the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“The holiday season is a period when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an opportunity to say something,” said a church leader involved with one of the displays.
Statements Echo Across the Country
These artistic statements are extensions of the prominent role taken by faith leaders in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Similar socially conscious exhibits have been erected in multiple states.
In one New England state, a church took away the tiny figure of the baby Jesus from its creche. Left behind was a handmade notice that stated: “Immigration authorities were here.” The parish are said to have remained firm despite criticism from various religious and agency leadership.
Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue
For those behind these displays, presenting the ancient tale of the nativity within a modern political context helps bring focus to ongoing government agendas. They argue that the family's status as refugees parallels the actual anxieties and realities of many households today, encompassing being torn apart and the removal of working family members.
This is not the initial instance congregations have used nativity scenes for social commentary. In previous years, installations have addressed issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.
Facing Pushback and Weathering the Elements
The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find it really difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”
In a physical sense, the weather have also affected one scene. At another church, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a storm and was unable to be restored. A substitute notice now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph didn’t make it. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”
