Nativity Scenes Incorporate Zip Ties and Gas Masks in Immigration Protest

A recent wave of creative Nativity scenes has stirred controversy across various churches in the United States. These reimaginings are more than just holiday decor; they serve as poignant symbols reflecting the ongoing immigration crisis.

Artistic Protest Against Immigration Enforcement

In Dedham, Massachusetts, a Nativity display at St. Susanna Parish has drawn national attention. Here, baby Jesus is depicted in a manger wrapped in a silver emergency blanket, with wrists zip-tied. Nearby, Mary wears a plastic gas mask, while Roman soldiers in tactical vests labeled “ICE” stand guard. This portrayal is meant to evoke the reality faced by many families threatened by federal immigration actions.

Community Impact

These displays resonate deeply with congregations. In Illinois, outside the Urban Village Church, a sign reads, “Due to ICE activity in our community, the Holy Family is in hiding.” This reflects the anxiety felt by many due to current immigration enforcement practices.

• In September, over 2,000 arrests were reported in Illinois and Massachusetts.
• Church leaders say these portrays the Holy Family as refugees, spotlighting the fear of separation and deportation.

Divided Opinions Surrounding Nativity Scenes

The displays have sparked diverse reactions. Supporters argue that the Bible advocates for compassion towards the marginalized. Conversely, critics label the installations as sacrilegious and politically charged. Some church leaders are calling for the restoration of traditional Nativity scenes, with the archdiocese of Massachusetts demanding a return to sacred purpose.

A Broader Context

Rev. Michael Woolf of Lake Street Church expressed that Christmas is a time for churches to publicly share impactful messages. Past Nativity scenes included depictions of Jesus in rubble as a plea for peace in Gaza and even Jesus locked in a cage to protest family separations at the border.

This year’s controversial art has faced resistance, with Boston Archbishop Richard Henning ordering its removal. Critics within the Catholic community have labeled the situations created by these displays as “grave scandals.”

Understanding the Message

Proponents emphasize that these displays aim to evoke discussion about real issues faced by the community. They reflect broader concerns tied to increasing deportations and enforcement actions against undocumented immigrants. Jillian Westerfield, an associate minister in Evanston, highlighted the emotional narratives tied to these artistic expressions.

• Many parishioners face daily fears of deportation and separation.
• Church community has extended support to multiple refugee families since 2019.

A Call for Empathy

Phil Mandeville from St. Susanna’s Parish Council insists that the displays serve a significant purpose. He emphasizes that the discussion should focus on the human lives behind immigration policies, arguing that these artistic expressions are critical in drawing attention to the plight of families affected by immigration enforcement.

The debate continues to highlight the complex intersection of faith and political issues in the context of U.S. immigration policies. As communities grapple with these evolving discussions, the message behind these Nativity scenes remains clear: they are a call for empathy amidst unprecedented times.