Venetians are voicing their discontent as the highly anticipated wedding of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancée, journalist Lauren Sánchez, approaches later this month. Local activists have rallied together, organizing protests slated for June 26, 27, and 28, coinciding with the festivities expected to attract hundreds of high-profile guests to the historic city.
In a gathering near the iconic Rialto Bridge, protest leader Federica Toninello announced a steadfast commitment to disrupt the festivities, stating, "Bezos will never get to the Misericordia," a rumored wedding venue. Armed with a banner declaring “No Space for Bezos,” the demonstration emphasized a broader sentiment among residents who feel their city has become a luxury destination catering to the wealthy elite.
Venice has witnessed a surge in tourism, leading to soaring housing prices and pushing many locals out of their own neighborhoods. Residents are determined to take a stand against what they perceive as a growing trend that prioritizes tourism over community well-being. "We have to block Bezos, we have to block this idea of this city as a tourist haven,” Toninello asserted, advocating for the local populace's right to reclaim their space.
The timing of the wedding couldn't be more controversial, coinciding with Venice's peak tourist season, where officials have even instituted an entry fee on busy weekends to cope with the influx of visitors. Protesters are also worried about additional disruptions to daily life, including substantial security measures needed for celebrity guests.
While Bezos and Sánchez have yet to comment, the residents' resolve to protect their city is clear, as they prepare to make their voices heard in the upcoming days.
