Across the United States, Christmas exhibits have appeared that comment on hardline federal immigration enforcement crackdowns. These installations reimagine the classic Christmas story, depicting the newborn Jesus and his family, Mary and Joseph, as victims caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.
An Evocative Retelling in a Chicago Suburb
One striking installation at a congregation in Evanston, Illinois features the infant Christ placed within a crib amidst snow. However, the figure is covered by the kind of thin, foil thermal blankets frequently given to detainees and has its wrists secured by plastic restraints.
Nearby, the statue of Mary stands outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. Such gear has been used by activists attempting to guard against tear gas. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, however in this display they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”
‘The Holy Family is in Hiding’
At a different Windy City place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the standard nativity scene with animals and Magi. In their place, a sign carries a direct statement: “Because of enforcement actions in our community the Holy Family is in hiding.”
“Christmas is a time when we have displays in front of the church and we get an opportunity to say something,” remarked a senior minister behind one of the installations.
Statements Echo Across the Country
These visual protests reflect the prominent role played by religious communities in recent protests against immigration enforcement. Comparable socially conscious exhibits have been erected in multiple states.
In Massachusetts, a church took away the tiny figure of Christ from its nativity scene. Left behind was a hand-painted notice that read: “ICE was here.” Church officials are said to have remained firm despite criticism from various diocesan and agency leadership.
Linking Ancient Story and Modern Crisis
According to those behind these displays, presenting the ancient story of the nativity within a contemporary sociopolitical frame helps bring attention to current government priorities. They argue that the family's status as displaced persons mirrors the real fears and experiences of many families today, including family separation and the deportation of working family members.
This is not the first time congregations have used nativity scenes for social commentary. Previously, displays have highlighted issues ranging from war to the climate crisis.
Encountering Criticism and Enduring the Elements
The messages are not always widely accepted. A church minister participating noted that some detractors either misinterpret the intent or “consider it very challenging to their conscience and are lashing out at the art rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”
In a literal way, the weather have also affected one display. At a separate location, the figure of Joseph was blown down in a storm and was unable to be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the space, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to memorialize all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”
