That reaction demonstrates the yawning gap between the abilities of American feminists and their Chinese counterparts to put their politics into action.

A Weibo spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Trump and 'straight man cancer'

Chinese feminists used to be able to count on the support of the US government, with former secretaries of state Hilary Clinton and John Kerry both voicing their support for them.

But many feel that under Trump, things will be different. Some have accused the new President of exemplifying the type of behavior dubbed "straight man cancer" on the Chinese internet -- stubbornly sexist and chauvinistic men.

"I sent Trump a letter laying out the top 'straight man cancer' behaviors, hoping he would examine himself," said Zheng.

"Watch out, the feminists of the world are speaking, and we're watching you," the letter, addressed to Trump Tower, concludes.

From a survey she conducted of more than 10,000 Chinese internet users, Zheng identified behaviors including "judging women by a double standard," "belittling a woman's ability in science or creativity," "victim blaming those who suffer sexual violence."

"It feels like Trump fans believe if they copy his words, they'll be as rich and powerful as him," she said.

Silenced Chinese women?

The inability to stand in solidarity with women protesting around the world last month was a hard blow for many Chinese feminists.

Nevertheless, Xiong said that she does feel encouraged by the messages of resistance by women in the US "facing great challenges."

"Despite our many differences, women in both countries are advocating for a lot of the same ideas, such as 'equal pay for equal work,'" she said.

Even as her organization faces increased censorship, she said the moment of "awakening" has already come for young Chinese women.

"We will strive to find alternative ways to make our voices heard," she said.