Proceedings of the 2nd World Conference on Gender Equality
Year: 2024
DOI:
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Radical Voices in Restrained Spaces: The Rise of the 6B4T Movement and its Impact on Feminist Discourse in China
Meilu Li
ABSTRACT:
This study explores the 6B4T movement in China, a radical feminist response to systemic gender inequities and the influence of historical Confucian doctrines. Originating in South Korea and propagating into Chinese social discourse, the 6B4T movement represents a significant departure from traditional feminist approaches, advocating for a comprehensive rejection of male-centred social norms and practices. Through qualitative analyses of interviews with Chinese feminists actively engaged in the movement, this research delineates how 6B4T has shaped feminist discourse amidst stringent censorship and societal pushback. The findings illuminate the complexities of advocating for radical feminist ideologies within the tightly controlled socio-political landscape of China. The study highlights the movement’s contributions to a broader understanding of global feminist movements, underscoring the critical role of digital platforms in sustaining activist networks and dialogues under oppressive regimes. The implications for policy and practice within feminist activism are discussed, emphasizing the need for international solidarity and support for suppressed feminist voices in authoritarian contexts.
keywords: censorship, Confucianism, Chinese feminism, digital activism, radical feminism