Satirical Christmas Displays at American Churches Push Back on Immigration Enforcement
Throughout the US, satirical holiday exhibits are on display that comment on aggressive federal immigration crackdowns. These scenes retell the traditional nativity story, portraying the newborn Jesus and his parents, Joseph and Mary, as victims caught up in the tactics of immigration authorities.
A Stark Retelling in a Chicago Suburb
One striking installation at a church in the Chicago suburb of Evanston features the infant Christ lying in a crib out in the snow. Yet, the doll is covered by the kind of thin, foil blankets often distributed to detainees and has its wrists bound with plastic restraints.
Nearby, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands just outside the building, equipped with a gas mask. This item has been used by protesters seeking protection from chemical agents. Beside her are representations of ancient soldiers, but in this scene they are dressed in tactical vests marked with the acronym “ICE.”
An Absent Holy Family
At a different Chicago place of worship, the customary models of the holy family are nowhere to be seen from the traditional nativity scene with camels and donkeys and wise men. Instead, a placard carries a simple message: “Due to ICE activity in our community the holy family is in hiding.”
“The holiday season is a period when we have displays in front of the church and we get an chance to say something,” remarked a church leader behind one of the displays.
Messages Echo Nationwide
These visual protests are extensions of the prominent part played by faith leaders in recent protests against federal policies. Similar socially conscious displays 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. In its spot was a handmade notice that read: “Immigration authorities were here.” Church officials reportedly stood defiant despite complaints from both religious and government officials.
Linking Biblical Narrative and Contemporary Issue
According to those behind these displays, presenting the age-old tale of the nativity within a modern political context draws attention to current administrative agendas. They argue that the holy family’s status as displaced persons mirrors the actual fears and experiences of numerous households today, including being torn apart and the removal of working family members.
It is not the initial instance churches have used nativity scenes for political protest. In previous years, installations have highlighted issues ranging from war to the environmental emergency.
Facing Criticism and Weathering the Elements
The statements are not always widely accepted. A church minister involved noted that some detractors either do not fully understand the intent or “find it really difficult to their sense of right and wrong and are reacting negatively at the display rather than engaging with what the true meaning is.”
In a physical way, the weather have also affected one scene. At another location, the figure of St. Joseph was knocked over in a windstorm and could not be repaired. A replacement sign now occupies the spot, stating: “Joseph was lost. We hold this space to honor and remember all the victims of immigration enforcement actions.”
