VENICE, Italy — The streets of Venice came alive with the voices of hundreds of protesters on Saturday, marching against billionaire Jeff Bezos and his lavish wedding celebrations. The protests coincided with the final day of festivities for Bezos and his new wife, Lauren Sanchez Bezos, who exchanged vows on Friday in a ceremony with about 200 celebrity guests.
The wedding took place on the secluded island of San Giorgio, yet it did not sit well with many locals. Critics argue that the celebration exemplifies the exploitation of the historic city, which continues to grapple with issues such as overtourism, inflated housing prices, and environmental threats from rising sea levels.
Demonstrators filled the narrow streets, brandishing colorful banners with slogans like “Kisses Yes, Bezos No” and “No Bezos, No War.” The protest highlighted grievances from Venetians regarding what they perceive as the negative impact of wealthy individuals on their city. With a population of approximately 50,000, many residents feel overwhelmed by the influx of tourists who flock to Venice.
Among the protesters, Martina Vergnano stated, “We are here to disrupt the plans of the wealthy elite, who benefit at the expense of many while the state of our city remains precarious.” The event was organized in response to the wedding’s perceived extravagance, as residents continue to face daily struggles exacerbated by tourism and climate issues.
In an attempt to quell discontent, Bezos reportedly donated 1 million euros to three environmental organizations focused on preserving Venice. Yet, many activists dismissed the donations as insufficient and merely a means of easing public anger. Flavio Cogo, another protestor, noted, “We seek a Venice dedicated to its citizens, not a playground for the rich. These contributions are a mere pittance aimed at assuaging Bezos’ conscience.”
Details of the wedding ceremony were closely guarded until Sanchez Bezos shared a moment on Instagram, showcasing her in a stunning white gown alongside Bezos in a tuxedo. The celebration featured an array of A-list attendees, including Oprah Winfrey, Tom Brady, and Leonardo DiCaprio, among others.
The couple opted for accommodations at the luxurious Aman Venice hotel, where they engaged with the press and posed for photos, highlighting a stark contrast to the frustrations of local citizens. Protesters expressed their discontent with slogans like, “The planet is burning, and here are Lauren Sánchez’s 27 wedding dresses,” referring to the bride’s extravagant wardrobe choices.
In response to the controversial celebrations, the city administration has defended the event, emphasizing Venice’s historical significance as an open city that has hosted diverse visitors, from emperors to authors. The administration asserts that such high-profile events are essential components of Venice’s cultural fabric, which continues to thrive amidst a myriad of challenges.