“Her Power” in the Countryside: A Discourse Analysis Study of Rural Female Cadres’ Image in the China Women's News WeChat Official Account (2022-2025)
Abstract
“Her power” refers to the unique influence women exert in social development. For rural grassroots female cadres, it manifests as promoting governance innovation with flexibility and tenacity. They combine delicate empathy with bold responsibility: patiently mediating neighborhood conflicts and caring for vulnerable groups, while courageously leading industrial development and policy implementation. As a link between policies and villagers, they break gender barriers, demonstrating dedication in poverty alleviation and rural revitalization, serving as a vital force in grassroots governance and a vivid example of “women holding up half the sky”. Against the dual backdrop of rural revitalization and deepening gender equality, this study examines how China Women's News (2022-2025) constructs discourse around rural female cadres through content and discourse analysis. It finds that the newspaper portrays them as capable, dedicated, and innovative, highlighting their core role in rural governance—driving economic growth and boosting community cohesion. While gradually incorporating gender-inclusive discourse to break stereotypes, it insufficiently explores their structural gender dilemmas, such as resource access barriers and conflicts with traditional roles. The research suggests the current discourse, while affirming female leadership, needs stronger critical reflection on systemic gender challenges.
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