Greenpeace Joins Protests Against Jeff Bezos's High-Profile Venice Wedding
Venice, a city long celebrated for its unmatched beauty and delicate ecosystem, has become the focal point of a heated debate as American tech billionaire Jeff Bezos prepares to marry journalist Laura Sanchez in an extravagant ceremony. The much-anticipated event is expected to draw around 200 guests, including prominent figures like Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, alongside numerous stars from the worlds of film, fashion, and business.
Local Backlash: A Symbol of Over-Tourism and Commercialization
Despite the glamour, many Venetians and environmental activists view the wedding as a glaring example of the city's ongoing commodification. Venice has struggled for years with overtourism and depopulation, with locals increasingly concerned that such ostentatious displays only fuel its fragile state.
On Monday, activists affiliated with Greenpeace Italy and the UK-based group "Everyone Hates Elon" staged a protest in St. Mark's Square. They unfurled a massive banner featuring a laughing image of Bezos, accompanied by the message: "If you can rent Venice for your wedding, you can pay more tax." Authorities soon intervened, requesting identification before the banner was taken down.
Simona Abbate, a protester, emphasized their stance, saying, “The problem isn’t the wedding itself, but the system that allows billionaires to rent out entire cities for their personal enjoyment.”
Officials Highlight Economic Benefits Amid Controversy
Despite the backlash, Venice's Mayor Luigi Brugnaro and regional governor Luca Zaia have defended the decision to host the lavish wedding. They argue that the event will generate an economic boost estimated between 20 to 30 million euros, benefiting local businesses such as gondola operators and water taxi services.
Additionally, Bezos is reportedly pledging significant philanthropic support, including a donation of one million euros to Corila, a consortium devoted to preserving Venice’s lagoon ecosystem.
Ongoing Community Concerns and Precautions
Earlier this month, anti-Bezos messages appeared on landmarks like St. Mark’s bell tower and the Rialto Bridge, voicing local frustrations over prioritizing VIP events over essential public services and affordable housing. Some residents even threatened peaceful blockades to underscore their demands.
Details about the wedding’s exact dates and venues remain tightly under wraps, but celebrations are anticipated to span three days, likely from June 26 to 28.
Where Tradition Meets Controversy
As Venice prepares to host one of the most talked-about social events of the year, tensions highlight the complex challenges the city faces — balancing cultural allure, economic opportunity, and environmental preservation in an era of escalating tourism and celebrity influence.
