Biography:
Zheng Churan (Chinese: 鄭楚然; pinyin: Zhèng Chǔrán) is a prominent Chinese women’s rights activist and feminist. She rose to prominence as one of the key members of the Feminist Five, a group of activists dedicated to fighting for gender equality in China. Zheng’s unwavering commitment to women’s rights and her significant contributions to organizing events and advocating for change have made her a respected figure in the feminist movement.
Born in China, Zheng developed a strong sense of justice and equality from a young age. She witnessed firsthand the societal discrimination and inequality faced by women and was determined to challenge these oppressive norms. Zheng’s passion for women’s rights led her to become actively involved in advocating for gender equality through various platforms.
In 2015, Zheng and four other activists, Wei Tingting, Wang Man, Wu Rongrong, and Li Tingting, collectively known as the Feminist Five, planned a campaign against sexual harassment on public transportation in commemoration of International Women’s Day. However, shortly before the events were to take place, all five women were detained by the Chinese government. This unjust act sparked international outrage and solidified Zheng’s position as a leading voice in the fight for women’s rights.
After 37 days of detention, Zheng and the other activists were released on bail. The potential sentence they faced, up to three years in prison for creating a disturbance, highlighted the oppressive environment in which they were operating. Despite the challenges and risks, Zheng remained committed to her cause, continuing to raise awareness about women’s rights and organizing events that sought to empower women.
Zheng’s efforts did not go unnoticed, as she was recognized by the BBC in 2016 as one of the BBC’s 100 Women. This acknowledgment further bolstered her reputation as a dedicated and influential feminist activist. Zheng’s work extended beyond activism, as she fought for women to be granted menstrual leave, highlighting the need for greater understanding and support for women’s health and well-being.
Beyond her activism, Zheng is also a prolific writer and entrepreneur. Alongside Xiao Meili, she co-operates an online store called Dúpǐn Shāngdiàn, where they sell original designs centered around feminism. This platform provides an outlet for women to express themselves and challenge societal norms through fashion.
In 2018, Zheng was confronted with a defamation case, filed against Kù Wán Shíyànshì, a Chinese independent media platform that had accused her of running an international sex trafficking operation. Zheng courageously pursued legal action against these baseless accusations, demonstrating her commitment to standing up for truth and justice.
Zheng’s dedication to the cause of feminism and human rights remains unwavering. Her continued activism and influential writings shed light on the issues faced by women in China and inspire others to join the fight for equality. Her bravery in the face of adversity has made her a role model for women and girls throughout the country.
Awards:
– BBC 100 Women 2016