Fact Check: Greenpeace Joins Anti-Bezos Protests, Criticizing Billionaire Tax Breaks
What We Know
On June 23, 2025, Greenpeace participated in protests in Venice against the upcoming wedding of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez. The protest featured a large banner in St. Mark's Square that read: “IF YOU CAN RENT VENICE FOR YOUR WEDDING YOU CAN PAY MORE TAX” (AP News). This demonstration was part of a broader movement, dubbed “No Space for Bezos,” which criticized not only the wedding but also the impact of billionaires on local governance and environmental issues. Greenpeace highlighted the comparatively low taxes paid by billionaires, asserting that their wealth exacerbates the climate crisis (Washington Post).
The protests were organized by a coalition of local groups, including housing advocates and anti-cruise ship campaigners, who argue that the prioritization of tourism over local needs is detrimental to Venice's residents (Los Angeles Times).
Analysis
The claim that Greenpeace joined the anti-Bezos protests is substantiated by multiple reputable sources. The Associated Press, Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times all reported on the event, confirming Greenpeace's involvement and the message conveyed through their banner. These sources are credible, as they are established news organizations known for their journalistic standards.
Greenpeace's participation in the protests aligns with its mission to advocate for environmental justice and challenge the practices of wealthy individuals that contribute to environmental degradation. By targeting Bezos, who is often criticized for his wealth and the tax breaks he receives, Greenpeace aims to raise awareness about economic inequality and its environmental implications (AP News, Washington Post).
The protests were met with criticism from local officials, who welcomed the wedding and dismissed the protests as unwarranted. However, this does not diminish the legitimacy of Greenpeace's concerns regarding tax breaks for billionaires and their environmental impact (Los Angeles Times).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
Greenpeace did indeed join the anti-Bezos protests in Venice, criticizing billionaire tax breaks and highlighting the environmental issues associated with extreme wealth. The evidence from multiple credible news sources supports this claim, confirming Greenpeace's active role in the protests and their motivations behind it.
