Chinese Feminism Workshop a huge success

News | Posted on Tuesday 1 May 2018

Academics and activists from York and beyond came together for a day full of workshops and talks.

Dr Jon Howlett delivers his talk

The University of York hosted a wonderful one-day workshop and talks on Chinese Feminism on 24 April 2018 with generous sponsorship from the York Asia Research Network, the Department of History, Centre for Women’s Studies (CWS), and the Centre for Applied Human Rights. The event was held in partnership with British Postgraduate Network for Chinese Studies (BPCS).

The workshop was a great success, bringing together both young and established scholars, academics and activists in enjoyable and stimulating discussions. More than 60 attendees joined in throughout the day, from York and beyond. In the morning, a lively 'Hands on Feminism Workshop' was run by Chinese feminist activist Li Maizi with participants from across different disciplines. At the end of the session the attendees made banners to show solidarity with China’s #Metoo movement.

In the afternoon, distinguished speakers, including Professor Harriet Evans from London School of Economics, Professor Stevi Jackson from CWS and Dr Jon Howlett from the Department of History, gave talks on historical and contemporary aspects of women’s movement in China. Dr Howlett’s talk on 'Historical perspectives on feminism, subjectivity and state discourse in China' was well-received. Feedback from particpants was equally positive; one participant commented "Thank you for organising such an important event that brings us together! I wish it could happen more often!"