Burning Man 2023 in Nevada faced disruption as climate protesters from Seven Circles and Extinction Rebellion blocked the road to the festival with a trailer, leading to a lengthy traffic jam. Video footage captured the confrontation as Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribal Police officers plowed through the blockade, apprehending the demonstrators. Tensions escalated as officers ordered activists to the ground, and some were heard sobbing and asserting their non-violent intentions. The incident received mixed reactions, with some applauding law enforcement’s response to climate protesters and others questioning the use of force.
The activists were protesting Burning Man due to concerns about the festival’s association with private jet use and perceived contradictions in its values. Some held banners with messages such as ‘Ban Private Jets’ and ‘Burners of the world unite, abolish capitalism.’ Extinction Rebellion and Seven Circles did not immediately release official statements about the protest, but the Seattle branch of Extinction Rebellion tweeted questions about the police officer’s actions.
The protesters from Seven Circles aimed to draw attention to what they viewed as capitalism’s failure to address climate and ecological issues. They also criticized the perceived commodification of Burning Man by affluent attendees who might not align with the event’s stated values. Some protesters called for greater political impact akin to Woodstock’s influence on counter-culture. They highlighted the environmental impact of private jets and demanded changes within Burning Man leadership and event practices, including addressing carbon emissions and banning private jets and certain types of waste.
The incident spotlighted the intersection of environmental concerns, activism, and public events, sparking discussions about the appropriate balance between protest and public safety.