Protesters decry billionaire’s event as symbol of inequality
Environmental group Greenpeace joined growing protests on Monday against the high-profile wedding of Jeff Bezos and journalist Laura Sanchez in Venice, criticizing the billionaire for “renting” a city plagued by over-tourism and economic fragility.
With up to 200 VIP guests expected — including Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner — the three-day celebration has been dubbed the “wedding of the century.” Yet not all are impressed. Greenpeace activists and UK group “Everyone Hates Elon” unfurled a massive banner in St Mark’s Square, reading: “If you can rent Venice for your wedding you can pay more tax.”
Police swiftly intervened, but the symbolic protest resonated. “The problem is not the wedding, the problem is the system,” activist Simona Abbate told reporters. “One big billionaire can’t rent a city for his pleasure.”
Local tensions rise as Venice becomes a billionaire playground
Critics argue the wedding exemplifies Venice’s transformation from cultural gem to elite playground. With ongoing depopulation, a housing crisis, and overloaded public services, many locals see the celebration as a glaring symbol of misplaced priorities.
Earlier in June, banners against Bezos appeared on the city’s famed landmarks, including the Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s bell tower. Groups threatened peaceful blockades to oppose what they call “VIP abuse” of a struggling city.
Officials defend event’s economic upside
Mayor Luigi Brugnaro and regional governor Luca Zaia defended the wedding, citing economic benefits. Zaia estimated the event could inject 20-30 million euros into the local economy through boats, gondolas, and luxury services.
Bezos is also expected to donate 1 million euros to Corila, a research consortium focused on the Venice lagoon ecosystem, according to reports from Corriere della Sera and ANSA.
Glamour vs. accountability
Though dates remain under wraps, celebrations are expected to run June 26-28. With Venice’s future at stake, critics demand more than celebrity fanfare. As one protester noted, “Venice needs homes and public services, not yachts and red carpets.”
