Satirical Christmas Displays at American Churches Offer Commentary on Immigration Enforcement

Across the United States, satirical holiday exhibits have appeared that comment on hardline government immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph, as figures caught up in the tactics of enforcement agents.

An Evocative Interpretation in a Chicago Suburb

One striking installation at a congregation in the Chicago suburb of Evanston shows baby Jesus lying in a manger out in the snow. However, the doll is wrapped in the kind of emergency blankets often distributed to detainees and has its hands secured by zip-ties.

Nearby, the figure of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, wearing a respirator. This item has been adopted by activists seeking to guard against chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are wearing body armor labeled with the letters “ICE.”

An Absent Holy Family

At a different Chicago church, the customary models of the holy family are conspicuously absent from the standard display with animals and Magi. Instead, a placard carries a direct message: “Due to enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”

“Christmas is a time when we have displays out on the lawn and we get an chance to say something,” said a church leader behind one of the displays.

Messages Spread Nationwide

These artistic statements reflect the prominent role played by faith leaders in ongoing demonstrations against federal policies. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have been erected in other states.

In Massachusetts, a parish took away the tiny figure of Christ from its creche. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have stood defiant despite complaints from both diocesan and government officials.

Connecting Biblical Narrative and Modern Crisis

According to those behind these scenes, framing the ancient story of Christ’s birth within a modern sociopolitical frame helps bring attention to current administrative priorities. They contend that the holy family’s status as displaced persons parallels the actual fears and realities of numerous families today, including being torn apart and the deportation of working loved ones.

It is not the first time congregations have employed Christmas displays for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from conflict to the climate crisis.

Facing Criticism and Enduring the Elements

The messages are not always widely accepted. A clergy member participating commented that some critics either misinterpret the intent or “find it very difficult to their conscience and are lashing out at the display rather than engaging with what the true message is.”

In a literal way, the weather have also impacted 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, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the those affected of immigration enforcement actions.”