In an outcry against the opulent wedding of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancée Lauren Sánchez, Venetians have expressed their discontent, organizing a series of protests slated for June 26, 27, and 28. The wedding is expected to draw countless guests to Venice, stoking local frustrations over the city's transformation into a playground for the wealthy.
Protest organizers gathered near the iconic Rialto Bridge, supported by several citizens' groups, to plot their action plans to demonstrate against the wedding. Federica Toninello, a leader in the protest effort, has been vocal, stating that their commitment to blocking access to the wedding venue is resolute. “Bezos will never get to the Misericordia,” she asserted, referring to a potential venue within the city.
The protest is contextualized within a greater concern among residents regarding the rapid tourism-driven price hikes in housing that have outpaced many locals' ability to afford living in their own city. The protests also convey anxiety about the anticipated disruptions caused by wedding festivities—including enhanced security and rampant logistics for high-profile guests—likely to hinder the daily lives of the dwindling Venetian populace.
Tensions have further intensified surrounding the timing of the wedding, with its occurrence coinciding with Venice's peak tourist season, exacerbating already strained conditions. The city recently introduced a controversial entry fee on weekends and holidays to manage its overwhelming visitor numbers. Despite calls for comment from representatives of Bezos and Sánchez, there has been no response.
The local sentiment is strongly articulated by slogans such as “No Space for Bezos!” displayed prominently during these gatherings. Protesters argue that it is imperative to reclaim their city amidst increasing commodification and celebrity culture.
