A Year in Feminist News
Hello TWOC readers!
As we approach the year’s end, this final newsletter of 2023 is a good opportunity to highlight December’s top stories from The World of Chinese and reflect on some of the memorable events that defined the past twelve months.
Read ahead to find:
A look back at some of the struggles and triumphs of feminism in China this year
Insights into why young Chinese workers are turning to certifications and exams to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive post-pandemic job market
An exploration of the obstacles still hindering tourism for China’s visually impaired people
Thank you for your continued support and happy holidays!
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Our editor Hayley Zhao reflects on the year 2023 in feminist news. From the inspiring tale of Zhang Guimei, founder of China’s first free public school for girls, to the tragic story of Zheng Linghua, a victim of cyberbullying—2023 has been another tumultuous year for feminism in China.
What’s Driving China’s Certification Craze?
In China’s increasingly crowded and competitive job market, young professionals are embracing qualifications and exams as essential tools to distinguish themselves, writes Shao Yefan. This trend may underscore larger shifts in a society where academic degrees alone are no longer seen as the sole ticket to career success.
Visually Impaired Tourists Still Face Barriers
Meanwhile, visually impaired people in China are facing challenges that hinder them from fully experiencing the joys of travel, writes Pan Fengfan. Through the stories of a blind man and a frustrated volunteer, we gain insight into the obstacles encountered by over 17 million visually impaired individuals in accessing tourism, despite notable efforts to improve accessibility and inclusivity.
What We’re Watching
The documentary The Last Year of Darkness delves into the pulsating heart of Chengdu’s underground nightlife. Set in Funky Town, a compact yet influential nightclub nestled between a pizza joint and a construction site, this film by Benjamin Mullinkosson captures the essence of the city’s dynamic nightlife. Mullinkosson’s lens zooms in on the lives of the club’s regulars, including a drag performer, a late-night delivery driver, and an emotionally volatile guzheng player. The film boldly navigates themes of mental health, societal non-conformity, and queer identity, all while presenting the raw emotions and complexities of its characters. Notably, it portrays queerness not as a struggle for justice but as an ordinary facet of life.
One Last Thing...
Looking to keep up with the latest language trends in China to improve and maintain your Chinese? We have a language section for you to explore what China is saying—and discover the stories behind the slang.
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