BY DAVID ROSENSTEIN
In a bold act of protest, two climate activists from the “Food Riposte” group targeted the iconic Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum in Paris on Sunday. As they hurled soup at the protective glass encasing Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, the activists passionately advocated for a sustainable food system, questioning the prioritization of art over the right to healthy and sustainable food.
The incident unfolded in a video shared on social media, featuring two women adorned with “FOOD RIPOSTE” on their T-shirts breaching security barriers to approach the painting. Their impassioned slogans echoed concerns about the agricultural system, claiming it to be ailing and causing harm to farmers. Louvre employees swiftly responded by placing black panels in front of the Mona Lisa and evacuating the room.
The “Food Riposte” group, attributing the protest to the French government’s alleged failure in meeting climate commitments, called for a comprehensive food security system. They emphasized the need for better access to healthy food and improved income for farmers, echoing the ongoing grievances of French farmers who have been protesting against low wages and other issues.
“Paris police confirmed the arrest of two individuals in connection with the incident.”
Simultaneously, French farmers, angered by issues such as low remuneration and red tape, continued their demonstrations across the country. Some utilized tractors to set up road blockades and slow traffic, while others resorted to dumping agricultural waste at government offices. New Prime Minister Gabriel Attal acknowledged the challenges faced by farmers and pledged additional measures against what he deemed “unfair competition” from countries with different production rules.
The Louvre, quick to address the protest, released a statement confirming that the Mona Lisa remained unharmed, thanks to its protective glass. The museum condemned the act and expressed its intention to file a complaint against the activists. This incident adds to the Mona Lisa’s history of being a target for protests and acts of vandalism, including the infamous theft in 1911 and subsequent protective measures like bulletproof glass. The ongoing saga of the Mona Lisa remains a symbol of the delicate balance between artistic heritage and societal issues.
As the situation unfolds, the French government and environmental activists continue to grapple over the intersection of art, agriculture, and environmental responsibility. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
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