"China's Feminist Movement Defies Censorship and Soars in Popularity"
Chizuko Ueno, a 75-year-old Japanese feminist scholar, has become a phenomenon in China despite the government's promotion of conservative social values and crackdown on civil society movements. Ueno's books have sold over half a million copies in mainland China, reflecting a surge in interest in women's rights. Her openness about choosing not to marry or have children has made her a role model for many Chinese women. While feminist ideas are not banned in China, authorities view activism with suspicion and regularly pressure bookstores and cafes to cancel feminism-themed events. The popularity of Ueno's books has helped keep feminist ideas in the mainstream, even though direct policy change is unlikely.