Protests broke out in New York City during the 2026 Met Gala, with activists targeting Jeff Bezos over his role as an honorary chair of the high-profile event. The Met Gala, known for its exclusivity and high ticket prices, has drawn criticism this year after the Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife, Lauren Sánchez, were named among the key sponsors. The backlash comes at a time of growing public debate around wealth inequality in the United States. In the days leading up to the event, protests have taken place on streets, subways and online platforms, with activists and critics questioning Bezos’ presence at a major cultural event.
Anti-Bezos campaign at Met Gala 2026
Opposition to Bezos began soon after his involvement in the gala was announced earlier this year. The protests grew since then, with messages appearing across New York, including posters in subway stations and bus stops. Some social media users have also criticised the event, with some referring to it as the “Amazon Prime Gala” and “Bezos Ball.”
Activist groups lead protests against Jeff Bezos
A group called “Everyone Hates Elon” has led several protest actions, despite its name referencing another billionaire. The group has organised campaigns across the city, including placing nearly 300 fake urine bottles inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art to highlight complaints from Amazon workers about working conditions.On the eve of the gala, activists also projected messages and videos onto major buildings, including the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. One projection read: “If You Can Buy the Met Gala, You Can Pay More Taxes.”The group, according to a New York Post report, has alleged that Amazon workers are sometimes forced to urinate in bottles due to punishing schedules and limited bathroom access. Amazon has previously acknowledged the issue sating that it has “worked to address” the concerns.
Political and public reactions to protest against Jeff Bezos
The protests have also drawn attention from political leaders. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he would not attend the event, stating that his focus is on “affordability.”Some members of the public have questioned Bezos’ connection to the fashion-focused event. “What does Jeff Bezos have to do with fashion?” one passer-by asked during the protests.
