Salt Lake residents demand County Council end partnership with major weapons manufacturer

Salt Lake City, UT – On November 11, over two dozen community members gathered at the Salt Lake County Council to raise concerns about sponsorship of Clark Planetarium by weapons manufacturer Northrop Grumman. The Clark Planetarium is a popular county-operated attraction in downtown Salt Lake, offering all-ages exhibits about science and space exploration. The mobilization was organized by the Utah Anti-War Committee.

“People all around the community have commented that the Northrop Grumman logo plastered on the side of this facility is an eyesore and a disgrace on this community,” said one attendee.

Another participant said, “The Planetarium aims to be a family-friendly space that fosters curiosity, education, and a love for science and astronomy. However, aligning with Northrop Grumman contradicts these values. This company, while claiming to support science education derives over 80% of its revenue from contracts with the Pentagon, producing missiles and aircraft that are used in conflict such as the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the war against Iran.”

In recent months, community opposition has grown to the prominent Northrop Grumman logos placed inside and outside of the facility, as well as volunteers being sent from the weapons manufacturer to oversee youth science events.

Northrop Grumman has 8 operating facilities throughout Utah which manufacture nuclear missiles, F-35s, B-2 bomber jets, and Blackhawk helicopters. Many of these weapons have been sold to Israel or deployed in recent U.S. military interventions such as the attacks on Venezuela and kidnapping of President Nicolas Maduro. Northrop Grumman is also involved in the manufacture of surveillance aircraft, contributing to the deadly militarization of the U.S.-Mexico border.

Under heavy pressure, a motion to end the partnership was made. It did not pass, receiving a yes from only two sitting county council members. The issue is expected to be brought up again on the November 24, where the Utah Anti-War Committee, who leads the campaign, plans to mobilize even more community members.

On November 29, the International Day of Solidarity with Palestine, a march to the Planetarium is planned.

The recent midterm elections, which will unseat a number of Republican council members, are also expected to affect the campaign. If successful, the Northrop Grumman Out campaign may see one of its first major wins in the growing anti-war movement in Utah.

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