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On April 22, 2025, environmental activists from the group Extinction Rebellion staged a protest at the Charging Bull statue in Bowling Green Park, situated near the New York Stock Exchange. This act of vandalism, carried out to mark the 56th annual “Earth Day,” involved the application of neon green paint to the iconic bronze sculpture, with the message “Greed=Death” emblazoned across its surface.
The Charging Bull, which symbolizes a thriving stock market, was the centerpiece of this demonstration. Extinction Rebellion’s actions were intended to critique the perceived greed that they argue perpetuates environmental degradation. In a statement shared on X, the group expressed their sentiments, stating, “Good morning from the resistance. We came to Wall Street to call out the bulls—,” further accusing the wealthiest individuals of gambling with future generations’ prospects and criticizing government bailouts to those responsible for economic turmoil.
During the protest, an activist climbed onto the bull’s back and sat on its neck, prompting intervention from law enforcement, who instructed the individual to dismount. Following the demonstration, the protesters took time to remove the green paint from the statue, indicating a complex message about responsibility and acknowledgment of their actions.
The Charging Bull, crafted by artist Arturo DiModica, was first installed in the vicinity of the stock exchange in 1989 before being relocated to its current location. The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation details that this sculpture has thus become a symbol of not only financial markets but also, in this instance, of the public’s response to corporate influence on climate issues.
This incident highlights the growing tensions between climate activists and financial institutions, as protests continue to gain visibility. The actions taken on Earth Day serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for environmental justice and the desire for systemic change.
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www.cnbc.com