Jeff Bezos Wedding in Venice Draws Local Protests

Jeff Bezos, the billionaire founder of Amazon, is set to marry journalist Lauren Sanchez in Venice from June 24 to 26, an event that is expected to draw a multitude of VIPs. However, the news has not been met with universal enthusiasm, particularly among the residents of Venice. The city, already burdened by the influx of tourists, is now facing additional strain due to the impending high-profile wedding.

The discontent among the locals is palpable, with some residents taking to the streets to express their dissatisfaction. A large banner bearing an X over Bezos’s name was hung on a belltower overlooking the Venice lagoon, a clear message of disapproval. The banner was removed on Thursday, but the sentiment remains. The “No Space for Bezos” collective, responsible for the banner, has been vocal on social media, stating, “He’s not welcome, not in Venice, not anywhere!” The group has also called for a public assembly to further rally opposition to the event.

Bezos’s ownership of Blue Origin, a space travel company, has added fuel to the fire. The company’s all-female flight in April, which included Sanchez and pop star Katy Perry, faced significant backlash due to its high cost and environmental impact. This has only served to heighten the negative sentiment towards Bezos and his upcoming wedding.

Venice, a UNESCO-listed city renowned for its romantic gondolas and canals, has been a popular destination for high-profile weddings. In 2014, it hosted the glamorous wedding of Hollywood actor George Clooney and human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin, which attracted a large number of tourists and onlookers. However, the atmosphere ahead of Bezos’s nuptials is notably more hostile. The “No Space for Bezos” collective has emphasized that Venice is a living city, not a place to be rented out to the highest bidder.

Despite the local opposition, Venice’s mayor, Luigi Brugnaro, has welcomed the couple’s decision, citing the potential economic benefits. In March, the mayor stated that the wedding would bring in millions of dollars to the city. City hall has also addressed “fake news” circulating about the event, clarifying that only 200 people are on the guest list and that the event will not disrupt the city, its residents, or visitors.

Local reports indicate that five hotels have been reserved for the occasion, along with an impressive fleet of water cabs and a mooring for Bezos’s megayacht. The exact location of the marriage ceremony remains unclear, adding to the intrigue surrounding the event. The wedding is expected to be a lavish affair, but the local sentiment suggests that the celebration may not be as warmly received as the couple might hope.