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Nativity Scene Protests Immigration Policies with Stark Imagery

12/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A Nativity scene at Lake Street Church in Evanston shows baby Jesus with zip-tied wrists.
Mary and Joseph wear gas masks to symbolize the impact of federal immigration enforcement.
The display highlights a disconnect between religious values and immigration policies under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.
Protests rose during Operation Midway Blitz as ICE raids intensified in the Chicago area, including clashes in Elgin with tear gas.

History

Historical Context

In 2019, ICE's Operation Midway Blitz intensified immigration raids in Chicago, resulting in over 100 arrests and widespread protests. This operation, which began on September 9, 2025, highlighted tensions between federal enforcement and community values, as seen in the Nativity scene at Lake Street Church, depicting Mary and Joseph in gas masks, symbolizing the impact of harsh immigration policies on local communities.

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Story summary

A Nativity scene at Lake Street Church in Evanston shows baby Jesus with zip-tied wrists.
Mary and Joseph wear gas masks to symbolize the impact of federal immigration enforcement.
The display highlights a disconnect between religious values and immigration policies under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.
Protests rose during Operation Midway Blitz as ICE raids intensified in the Chicago area, including clashes in Elgin with tear gas.

1 / 2